DOI: https://doi.org/10.55373/mjchem.v28i2.110

Keywords: Chitosan, controlled release nanoparticles, nanopesticide, sustainable agriculture, green nanotechnology

Abstract

The extensive use of conventional pesticides has created persistent challenges, including residue accumulation in soil and water, bioaccumulation in food chains, and toxicity to non-target organisms. Chitosan-based controlled-release nanopesticides have emerged as a promising strategy to overcome these issues by improving delivery efficiency while reducing ecological risks. This review highlights the encapsulation chemistry and mechanisms of chitosan nanocarriers, focusing on uptake, release behaviour, and bioavailability. Particular attention was given to their environmental fate after application, including interactions with soil and water systems, degradation pathways, and persistence profiles. Compared with conventional formulations, chitosan-based nanoformulations demonstrated reduced volatilization, leaching, and degradation losses, leading to more effective pest control with lower chemical input. Their protective matrix design also reduced their toxicity toward beneficial organisms and minimizes off-target effects. By integrating nanotechnology with sustainable pest management, chitosan-based controlled-release systems offer a practical route toward safer pesticide use, enhanced crop protection, and alignment with global agricultural sustainability goals.