Controlled/slow‐release fertilizer based on cellulose composite and its impact on sustainable agriculture: review

Abstract The increase in global population puts pressure on food supplies in the agricultural sector, whose productivity depends on the soil nutrient availability. This demand has an impact on the high chemical fertilizer consumption. Simultaneously, another problem arises owing to unsustainable agricultural practices, namely low fertilizer efficiency. Controlled/slow‐release (CRF/SRF) fertilizers using cellulose biopolymers as composite matrices are a sustainable prospect owing to their being abundant, renewable, and biodegradable. Furthermore, cellulose contains surface chemical properties that are easily modified to play a role in the fertilizers’ release. In addition, the high cellulose hydrophilicity helps maintain soil moisture for plant growth. This article reviews the prospects of cellulose and its derivatives for CRF/SRF development, including cellulose modification, slow/controlled‐release mechanisms, and their impact on sustainable agricultural practices, which are discussed based on environmental, economic and social aspects. In addition, selecting environmentally friendly and low‐cost technologies is a concern to support sustainability. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.