Authors : Saurabh Mishra, Shweta Shukla, Aviral Chaurasia
DOI : 10.1007/978-3-031-90766-1_6
Volume : 4
Issue : 1
Year : 2025
Page No : 155-171
Oil spills pose a grave threat to marine environments, triggering a cascade of devastating consequences that ripple through ecosystems. Water and air pollution, soil contamination, and ecological devastation are just a few of the dire consequences that follow. While various cleanup methods have been employed to mitigate these disasters, restoring the delicate balance of affected ecosystems remains a formidable challenge. Traditional approaches, often relying on chemical dispersants and mechanical containment, can inadvertently exacerbate the problem, inflicting further harm on marine life and habitats. In recent years, green nanotechnology has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives for oil spill cleanup. This chapter delves into the immense potential of green nanotechnology to address this global challenge. By harnessing eco-friendly synthesis techniques and drawing inspiration from nature, scientists have developed green nanomaterials with remarkable oil-binding capabilities. Utilizing natural resources, such as plant extracts, these nanomaterials effectively remove oil from water surfaces, minimizing the ecological footprint. Furthermore, green nanotechnology holds significant promise for enhancing the biodegradation of oil pollutants, accelerating the natural recovery process of fragile marine ecosystems. This chapter will explore the diverse array of green nanomaterials, their synthesis methods, and their specific applications in oil spill cleanup. By integrating green nanotechnology into oil spill response strategies, we can pave the way for more effective, eco-conscious cleanup efforts, safeguarding marine ecosystems and preserving the invaluable biodiversity they harbor.