Nanomaterial waste management

New nanomaterials (NMs) are continuously being produced and utilized in various fields and are gradually dumped into waste streams, eventually being released into the atmosphere. NM wastes may flow into the waste system from different sources, including industrial waste, household waste, and hospital waste. Most nanoparticles (NPs) utilized in the industry include heavy metals that contribute to significant environmental concerns involving the contamination and bioavailability of heavy metals in NPs. During the process of nanowaste management, the effect of new materials on the environment need to be evaluated because their possible impacts on biological systems are unclear. One of several primary issues facing the waste management industry is the proliferation of nanowastes, but the feasibility and capacity of existing systems to tackle this problem remain unknown. To solve these problems requires new ecofriendly awareness and guidance with regard to the legalization of risk-related NMs. In this chapter we highlight the major concerns about nanowaste management: (1) significant risks of nanowastes in unregulated emissions of NMs into the ecosystem, (2) nano-scale categorization to explain the possible issues for current waste treatment of waste sources, and (3) legalization options for nanopollution reduction by industry and regulatory bodies. We also outline several constructive measures to strengthen the efficient, long-term, and sustainable utilization of nanoresources and waste control approaches.