Nature-Based Herbicides and Micro-/Nanotechnology Fostering Sustainable Agriculture

Bioherbicides,also known as nature-based herbicides, play a crucialrole in sustainable agriculture by effectively inhibiting weed growthand development. They help increase crop productivity by reducingcompetition between plants for nutrients, water, and light. Theireco-friendly nature sets bioherbicides apart, promoting environmentallyconscious farming practices. Despite their numerous benefits, manybioherbicide compounds are inherently unstable and susceptible toenvironmental degradation by temperature, light, humidity, and microbialactivity, thus posing challenges for effective weed management. Toaddress this issue, a growing emphasis has been placed on encapsulationstrategies in recent years. Encapsulation techniques offer severaladvantages for bioherbicides, including enhanced efficacy, sustainablebiological compound release, environmental factor protection, andshelf life improvement. Polymers, particularly biopolymers, are promisingmaterials for bioherbicide encapsulation in micro-/nanoparticles.These particles are specifically designed for the targeted deliveryof bioherbicides, ensuring effective crop protection and weed management.Micro-/nanotechnology incorporation in encapsulated formulation developmenthas revealed their notable potential. This study focuses on the latestdevelopments in the encapsulation of bioherbicides into micro-/nanoparticlesand their practical application for weed management. By leveragingmicro-/nanotechnology, researchers aim to maximize bioherbicidal applicationand efficacy, paving the way for sustainable agricultural weed managementpractices. The findings of this study may serve as a reference forexpanding the use of micro-/nanotechnology-associated bioherbicidesfor providing potential sustainable weed control solutions. Micro-/nanoencapsulation can improvethe effectiveness ofbioherbicides as smart and eco-friendly carriers for agriculturalapplications.

Automated summary

Bioherbicides, known as nature-based herbicides, are vital for sustainable agriculture due to their ability to effectively inhibit weed growth. They enhance crop productivity by reducing competition for resources and are environmentally friendly, promoting eco-conscious farming practices. However, many bioherbicide compounds are unstable and vulnerable to environmental factors, making weed management challenging. Encapsulation techniques, particularly using polymers, offer advantages such as improved efficacy, sustainable release, and protection against environmental degradation. This study focuses on the latest developments in encapsulating bioherbicides into micro-/nanoparticles for weed management, utilizing micro-/nanotechnology to enhance application and efficacy, thus facilitating sustainable agricultural practices.