The growing concern over environmental pollution caused by toxic organic
materials has led to intensive research on innovative and sustainable remediation
methods. Among the emerging technologies, the use of nanomaterials (NMs) has
gained significant consideration because of their exceptional properties as well as high
efficiency for the degradation of various pollutants. Contaminated organic materials,
including various industrial chemicals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and persistent
organic pollutants (POPs), pose severe threats to the environment and the health of
human beings and other animals. The conventional methods used in the treatment of
these pollutants often exhibit limited effectiveness, high costs, and may generate
harmful by-products. The use of NMs in degradation processes often requires less
energy compared to conventional remediation methods, leading to the overall process
being more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable. In a nanotechnologybased remediation strategy, engineered NMs are used to clean polluted locations
because of their efficient, cost-effective, sustainable as well as eco-friendly nature.
Nanoparticles (NPs) are very sensitive, have catalytic behavior, high surface area to
volume ratio, and excellent electronic properties. NPs have the ability to diffuse in
small spaces, which promotes their use as agents for the redressal of polluted soil and
water. This chapter highlights the pivotal role of NPs in the degradation of toxic
organic materials by leveraging their unique properties, making NMs a promising
solution for addressing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable remediation
practices.
Keywords: Environmental pollution, Nanoparticles, Nanomaterials, Persistent organic pollutants, Sustainable remediation.
