Towards green nanotechnology: maximizing benefits and minimizing harm

The ultimate goal of any economic, technological and social development is to improve human health and well-being. Thus, the society brings new requirements to new technologies, moving towards clean and green technology development. Green nanotechnology, as a branch of green technology, significantly contributes to environmental sustainability by producing nanomaterials and nanoproducts without harming human health and the environment, and by producing nanoproducts that provide solutions to environmental problems as well. Green nanotechnology is based on the existing principles of green chemistry and green engineering it uses less materials and renewable inputs wherever possible, and thereby saving energy and fuel. The main benefits of green nanotechnology are: increased energy efficiency, reduced waste and greenhouse gas emissions, and minimized the consumption of non-renewable raw materials.