This decade has seen revolutionary developments in the field of nanotechnology with newer and
diverse applications of nanoparticles appearing everyday. Novel nanomaterials are emerging with different
characteristics and compositions for specific applications such as cosmetics, drug delivery, imaging,
electronic etc. However, little attention is being paid to understand, assess and manage the environmental
impact of nanoparticles. Currently the information about toxicity of nanoparticles and their environmental
fate in air, water and soil is severely lacking. Inhalation, ingestion and dermal penetration are the potential
exposure routes for nanoparticles whereas particle size, shape, surface area and surface chemistry
collectively define the toxicity of nanoparticles. Several studies have shown excessive generation of reactive
oxygen species as well as transient or persistent inflammation following exposure to various classes of
nanoparticles. Increased production and intentional (sunscreens, drug-delivery) or unintentional
(environmental, occupational) exposure to nanoparticles is likely to increase the possibilities of adverse
health effects. The major environmental concerns include exposure assessment, biological fate, toxicity,
persistence and transformation of nanoparticles. Thus, the novel nanomaterials need to be biologically
characterized for their health hazards to ensure risk-free and sustainable implementation of nanotechnology.
Keywords: Nanotechnology, Nanoparticles, Toxicity, Environmental impact, Safety, Adverse effects,
Health hazards, Biological characterization.
