Chapter 2
Agricultural waste-driven Nanoemulsions and Microemulsions: A novel Bio-circular economic approaches for climate-resilient agriculture and combating hunger
- By Samarth R. Patel, J. J. Ghadiali, Ajay. V. Narwade, Susheel Singh, Manjula G. Chaudhari, Chintan V. Kapadiya, Kirankumar P. Suthar, Vipulkumar B. Patel - 01 May 2026
- Frontiers in Agri-Biotechnology and Food Science Innovations, Volume: 1, Pages: 14 - 26
Abstract/Preface
The increasing menace of global warming, food insecurity, and hidden hunger necessitates a paradigm shift in agriculture. In this chapter, we critically analyze the viability of utilizing nanoemulsions/microemulsions developed through agricultural/food waste resources in creating a sustainable agricultural system. These colloidal carriers, developed through the conversion of different biobased materials like lignocellulosic biomass, fruit peels, and oilseed waste into bio-based surfactants, offer precise delivery of agrochemicals, thereby increasing climate resilience in crops while reducing environmental impacts. This chapter critically discusses their mode of action in increasing nutrient uptake, pest resistance, and abiotic stress tolerance, creating climate-resistant crops that increase food security on a global scale. More importantly, this chapter critically discusses issues of scalability, regulatory frameworks, and ecotoxicological concerns, emphasizing the need for integrated life cycles in creating a sustainable agricultural system through waste resources. Using schematic illustrations of formulation pathways and application matrices, this chapter outlines a high-impact pathway of utilizing waste resources in creating nanoemulsions/microemulsions in reducing hunger, including micronutrient hunger, in a warming world.