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Studies have demonstrated the remarkable properties of nanoparticles and their many applications due to their size. While conventional synthesis of nanoparticles including physical and chemical methods has proven to be very expensive and sources of environmental pollution and potential health problems, harmless and eco-friendly nanoparticles were obtained by the green approach from biological materials and were used in many sectors of activities. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have been recently the subject of intense studies due to their innumerable advantages, among which the most remarkable are their wide band gap, high excitonic binding energy, biocompatibility, and stability. ZnONPs were used for the antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, the improvement of agriculture and food industry, and that of photovoltaic devices and storage. This review focuses on the green synthesis of ZnONPs from different biological materials, their characterization, and their potential applications. This review provides a better understanding of the biosynthesis, characterization techniques, and applications of ZnONPs in various sectors of activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...