Environmental concerns such as greenhouse gas emissions, unsustainable agricultural practices, and improper livestock manure management have intensified the search for eco-friendly solutions. Among these, zeolite-rich rocks referred to as zeolitites have emerged as promising materials for pollution control and sustainable agriculture. Zeolitites are naturally occurring crystalline aluminosilicate minerals with high cation-exchange capacity, strong adsorption potential, and exceptional water management properties. Italian chabazite-rich zeolitites, in particular, are rich in potassium (K) and low in sodium (Na), making them especially suitable for agricultural use. Studies have shown that incorporating zeolitites into soil or growing substrates improves nutrient retention, reduces leaching, enhances moisture availability, and decreases dependence on synthetic fertilizers and irrigation. These benefits contribute to improved crop productivity and quality, while enhancing environmental resilience. Despite these advantages, the role of zeolitites under challenging climatic conditions—such as drought or salinity—remains underexplored. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the agricultural and environmental applications of zeolitites, clarifies the scientific use of the term zeolitite, and highlights their potential in promoting sustainable, high-efficiency farming systems.
