Understanding the ecological impacts of nanoparticles: risks, monitoring, and mitigation strategies

Nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly integrated into various human activities, resulting in their accumulation in natural matrices such as soil, water, and air. NPs exhibit unique physical and chemical properties that can impact biological systems. The small size and extensive surface area of nanomaterials (NMs) can increase the ecological toxicity arising from NPs. The entry of nanocomposites into the environment through various pathways and their interaction with existing particles can create substantial risks for human, animal, and plant life in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This study aims to comprehensively assess the ecological impacts of NPs and the associated risks they pose to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Given the increasing integration of nanomaterials (NMs) in various human activities, understanding their behavior and toxicity in natural environments is critical. We employ a multidisciplinary approach that combines toxicology, environmental science, and nanotechnology to evaluate the physicochemical properties of NPs, including their size, stability, and surface reactivity. Our findings reveal that NPs can generate reactive oxygen species, leading to harmful effects on living organisms and altering biological structures. The study highlights the need for a structured risk assessment framework that incorporates data on the life cycle and environmental toxicity of NPs. We propose the development of a comprehensive database to monitor the interactions of NMs with ecosystems, focusing on their bioaccumulation and stability. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of targeted evaluation tests to assess the long-term impacts of NPs on specific organisms, such as Daphnia magna , which play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems. In conclusion, this review underscores the necessity of balancing the benefits of nanotechnology with its potential ecological risks, advocating for responsible development and usage to mitigate adverse effects on the environment and human health.