Green Electrochemical Nano-Biosensors for Sustainable Arsenic Speciation and Monitoring

Arsenic contamination in food and water remains a major global health issue, particularly across South and Southeast Asia. Although advanced analytical methods such as ICP-MS and GFAAS offer high sensitivity and precision, they are costly, laboratory-bound, and require skilled operators. In contrast, electrochemical nano-biosensors have emerged as a practical and cost-effective alternative, offering low cost, rapid detection, and portability suitable for field applications. This review recent advances in developing green-engineered nanomaterials for electrochemical arsenic detection, emphasizing eco-friendly synthesis routes and environmentally responsible design principles. Green fabrication of metal and metal-oxide nanoparticles, carbon-based materials, and hybrid composites has significantly improved sensor performance by enhancing surface area, conductivity, and catalytic activity while minimizing environmental impact. Key biosensing strategies are discussed, including aptamer-, enzyme-, and whole-cell-based systems capable of distinguishing between arsenic species. The review also highlights innovations in biodegradable polymers, waste-derived carbons, and renewable substrates that align with circular-economy principles. Finally, future perspectives highlight the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for real-time, decentralized monitoring. Collectively, these green nano-biosensing systems represent a critical step toward accessible, and efficient arsenic detection for global water safety.