ABSTRACT
Soil a significant carbon sink, plays a pivotal role in mitigating climate change. This review underscores the potential of soil amendments for enhancing carbon sequestration, focusing on the intricate relationship between these amendments and soil microbial communities. Soil amendments, ranging from biochar and organic compost to mineral additives, have been identified as viable strategies to boost soil carbon stocks. Concurrently, these amendments influence the diversity, structure, and functional roles of microbial communities, which in turn, are integral to soil carbon dynamics. Tools like 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, and isotope tracing techniques have propelled our understanding of microbial responses, shedding light on the complex microbial networks and their roles in carbon cycling. While promising, the application of soil amendments presents challenges. Variability arising from different soil types, climates, and microbial dynamics poses a consistent research challenge. Potential risks like reduced sequestration over time and economic considerations for large-scale application necessitate attention. Future directions hinge on innovations in soil amendment products, harnessing microbial inoculants for synergistic effects, and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations. This convergence of science, technology, and collaborative research heralds a future where soils are not just seen as substrates but as active, dynamic entities in the fight against climate change.
ABSTRACT
Nano fertilizers have emerged as a cutting-edge innovation in agricultural practices, poised to redefine nutrient delivery and management at the plant-soil interface. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the effects and consequences of nano fertilizer application on plant wellness. The inherent properties of nanoparticles allow for enhanced nutrient absorption, precise delivery, and increased bioavailability, potentially revolutionizing traditional fertilization methods. The results, as evidenced by multiple studies, indicate significant improvements in growth parameters, seed production, and overall plant health. Moreover, plants treated with nano fertilizers have shown heightened resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. However, while the benefits are promising, concerns arise regarding the ecological persistence of nanoparticles, potential bio-magnification, and implications for human health. A comparative analysis with conventional fertilizers revealed nano fertilizers' superior efficiency, but also brought forth economic considerations and environmental footprints. The current regulatory landscape is dynamic, with policies adapting to the rapid advancements of nanotechnology in agriculture. As research continues to bridge existing gaps, technological advancements are concurrently shaping the future prospects of nano fertilizer application. This review underscores the need for a balanced understanding of the potential and challenges, emphasizing collaborative efforts to harness nano fertilizers' full potential while ensuring ecological and human health safety.