Strategies for Sustainable Crop Production and Arid Land Management

Abstract

ABSTRACT The global climate crisis, exacerbated by intensifying natural disasters such as floods, droughts, rising sea levels, and forest fires, is rapidly depleting our water resources. To mitigate this, sustainable management of arid regions is crucial, requiring the implementation of effective water storage techniques, enhancement of soil water resources, and optimization of water utilization. Drought stress poses a significant challenge to agriculture, but the colonization of plants by mycorrhizal fungi offers a promising solution, enhancing drought tolerance and potentially alleviating plant water stress. Complementing this, organic materials like biochar, renowned for their extensive surface area and soil-stabilizing properties, can significantly improve soil water retention capacity, providing a synergistic approach when combined with mycorrhizal fungi. Although mycorrhiza positively impacts plant resistance to water stress, the exact mechanisms by which it facilitates water uptake and transport to plant tissues are still under investigation. Additionally, the implementation of water-conserving irrigation methods, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, can further enhance water efficiency. The use of cover crops in agricultural production also reduces water losses by maintaining soil surface coverage and enhancing carbon and water storage in the soil. Moreover, understanding the mechanisms underlying water retention in biochar-amended soils is a crucial area of ongoing research. Finally, adopting and scaling up Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) techniques, a relatively innovative approach, is vital for addressing water resource challenges in dryland regions and holds great promise for promoting resilient and sustainable agricultural practices.