Friendly Agriculture Research Articles

Foliar application of biostimulants improves nutritional and bioactive quality of walnuts.

Owing to their health benefits, walnuts are attracting interest as a good option for nutritious meals, thereby promoting their production. Furthermore, the adoption of ecologically and environmentally friendly agriculture strengthens biostimulant use as a sustainable complement to traditional fertilizers. This study evaluated the effects of different foliar-applied biostimulants in walnut tree orchards, in northeastern Portugal, on walnuts' chemical composition and bioactivity. Walnut samples were rich in fat (particularly the polyunsaturated linoleic acid), dietary fiber and protein. Sucrose was the most prevalent soluble sugar, followed by glucose and fructose. Studied samples also showed an antioxidant activity comparable (or superior) to that of Trolox. Some plant biostimulants (e.g. Sprint Plus®) had a positive impact on the nutritional composition of walnuts, more specifically by boosting tocopherol levels, besides improving the bioactivity of walnut extracts against specific bacteria. Overall, this research demonstrated that important quality traits of walnuts can be improved using sustainable agricultural bioproducts and practices. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Emerging Trends in Plant Growth Regulators: Innovations and Applications

The review offers a comprehensive and illuminating summary of the most recent developments in the area of plant growth regulators (PGRs). The purpose of this research is to investigate the rapid advancements and uses of plant growth regulators (PGRs), which are vital instruments for maximizing the growth and productivity of plants. A wide variety of novel PGR compounds and technologies have been created as a result of recent breakthroughs. These new technologies and compounds provide considerable enhancements over the conventional methods. This discusses important discoveries such as innovative synthetic plant growth regulators (PGRs) and biostimulants that improve plant growth, resistance to stress, and crop output. Specifically, it investigates the manner in which these improved PGRs are developed to target certain physiological processes, which ultimately results in treatments that are more precise and successful in crop management. In addition, the study investigates the role that developing technologies play in the implementation of PGRs. These technologies include smart delivery systems and precision agricultural methods, which make it possible to adjust treatments to the individual requirements of plants and the circumstances of their environments. Additionally, the incorporation of PGRs into agricultural operations that are environmentally responsible. It highlights the potential for these advances to help to environmentally friendly agriculture by lowering the dependency on chemical inputs and enhancing the efficiency with which resources are used. The significance of these technological developments in solving global concerns such as climate change and food security is emphasized in the article. The revolutionary effect that new PGR technology have had on contemporary agricultural practices. This article highlights the potential for these technologies to improve crop productivity and promote sustainable agriculture practices by providing a detailed review of current developments and the practical consequences of those trends.

Unveiling the Detrimental Impacts of Intensive Chemical Use and Monoculture on Soil Health and Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land in Telangana

Objective: The primary objective of this research is to investigate the implications of excessive chemical use in agriculture and its detrimental impact on the environment. The study aims to highlight the urgent need for a shift towards sustainable farming practices that prioritize both productivity and ecological preservation. Theoretical Framework: The research appears to be grounded in the concept of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the balance between economic growth, social progress, and environmental protection. It aligns with the understanding that intensive agricultural practices, while boosting yields, can have severe ecological consequences. Method: Researchers employed a descriptive survey methodology to gather data through semi-structured interviews, case studies, and group discussions. This mixed-methods approach provided a comprehensive understanding of farmers' practices and challenges. The collected data was analysed using SPSS software with a focus on descriptive statistics. Results and Discussion: The findings are alarming, indicating a heavy reliance on chemicals (98.2%) and a widespread adoption of monocropping (84.8%), particularly cotton cultivation. The study also revealed a decline in traditional farming practices with a shift towards mechanized methods (87.6%). Furthermore, there is growing scepticism among farmers about the effectiveness of livestock manure as a fertilizer. These results underscore the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. Research Implications: The study's findings affect lawmakers, farmers, and environmentalists. Sustainable agriculture practices that reduce chemical use, promote biodiversity, and protect soil health are urgently needed. The research also emphasises the importance of educating farmers about the long-term effects of current methods and the benefits of sustainable ones. Originality/Value: This article presents empirical facts on agricultural chemical consumption and related issues, advancing current knowledge. By evaluating the issue from a sustainable development goals viewpoint, the research illuminates the complex relationship between agricultural productivity and environmental preservation. The findings can inform legislation and actions to promote environmentally friendly agriculture.

Potensi precision farming dalam penerapan prinsip reduce untuk mengurangi limbah sumber daya pertanian

Background: The increase in agricultural production is often accompanied by excessive use of chemical inputs, contributing to environmental pollution. Precision farming is a modern approach that can address this challenge by optimizing input use through advanced technology. This paper explores the application of the reduce principle in precision farming to support efficient use of fertilizers and other resources. Method: The method used is a literature review of various published studies related to precision farming and agricultural land management. Findings: The application of the reduce principle in fertilization activities with precision farming can reduce fertilizer waste by up to 50%, increase land productivity by 10%, and minimize harmful environmental effects, such as groundwater pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Precision farming also improves irrigation efficiency through precision irrigation technology. Conclusion: This study confirms that applying precision farming with a focus on the reduce principle not only supports sustainable agriculture but also provides economic benefits for farmers by reducing production costs. Innovations in precision farming technology, such as the integration of AI-based sensors and IoT, further enhance potential efficiencies in the future. Novelty/Originality of this article: Emphasizing the use of the reduce principle in precision farming as a primary strategy to achieve more efficient and environmentally friendly agriculture aligns with the goals outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for responsible production.

SORGHUM AND ECO-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURE IN INDONESIA

Purpose: This paper reviews the research results on sorghum plants that use organic fertilizer to increase production. Theoretical reference: Sorghum plants also need to be fertilized to increase productivity. The use of chemical fertilizers in plants will have a broad impact on the environment and human health, so it is necessary to have an alternative organic fertilizer that is safe and leads to environmentally friendly agriculture, in addition to being a source of nutrients and to improve the properties of infertile soil. Methods: This research is supported and studied with a descriptive qualitative method. All information is collected through document analysis. The literature taken is the most recent year (the last 10 years). The productivity resulting from applying organic fertilizers is compared to the productivity without applying organic fertilizers. Then see the increase in results. In addition to productivity, the results of research on the quality of sorghum seeds are also seen. Results: According to various research results, applying organic fertilizers increases productivity ranging from 5.66% to 71.28% with an average of 20.96% compared to without organic fertilizers. Conclusions: Indonesia is one of the countries with the potential for the development of sorghum which can be done by environmentally friendly cultivation and the use of organic fertilizers because it is proven to increase productivity and improve the quality of sorghum seeds. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) planting can sustainably meet more food needs because sorghum plants have a higher protein content than corn and rice plants.

The Use of Production Factors and The Allocation of Labor in Plant Nurseries in Sudaji Village, Buleleng Regency

The management of the nursery business in Sudaji Village is expected to be a reference in conducting business in the agricultural sector. The nursery business has a positive impact on business actors and the surrounding community in addition to obtaining optimal profits as well as being able to create employment opportunities for the surrounding community. This study aims to determine the management of plant nurseries through business characteristics, use of production factors, allocation of labor and analysis of business income to see the profits of the nursery business being undertaken. This research was conducted in Sudaji Village, Sawan District, Buleleng Regency from November 2022 to January 2023 with a total of eight respondents in nursery businesses in Sudaji Village. The analytical method used is quantitative and qualitative descriptive analysis. Based on an analysis of the characteristics of the plant nursery business in Sudaji Village, it shows that the business is included in the micro business category based on business turnover value, land ownership, number of workers in accordance with Government Regulation no. 7 of 2021 concerning Ease, Protection, and Empowerment of Cooperatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (PP UMKM). The allocation of manpower for the plant nursery business in Sudaji Village, Buleleng Regency utilizes the majority of local workers from Sudaji Village and Suwug Village. Suggestions for nursery entrepreneurs are to increase promotion and marketing through the digital market and farmers are expected to be able to take advantage of experience that is already qualified so that they can overcome the development of pests and diseases by starting to direct organic farming and environmentally friendly agriculture.

Evaluation of Rice–Crayfish Field Fragmentation Based on Landscape Indices: A Case Study of Qianjiang City, China

Since the 21st century, rice–crayfish fields have been widely distributed in the Yangtze River Basin in China. However, the spontaneous construction of these fields by farmers has given rise to the issue of rice–crayfish field fragmentation (RCFF) in certain areas. This study introduced a novel method for evaluating RCFF using township-level administrative regions as the evaluation units. Three key evaluation elements, including five landscape indices, were employed: area and edge metrics (rice–crayfish area ratio), shape metrics (perimeter–area ratio distribution), and aggregation metrics (rice–crayfish patch density, percentage of like adjacencies, and rice–crayfish contagion index). The RCFF was quantified and its spatial distribution pattern was analyzed through the entropy method and GIS spatial analysis. Empirical studies conducted in Qianjiang city yielded insightful results: (1) The contribution of evaluation elements to the RCFF was ranked in descending order as follows: aggregation metrics > shape metrics > area and edge metrics. (2) The RCFF of Yunlianghu farm was the lowest at 0.06, while the RCFF of Yangshi subdistrict 2 was the highest at 0.94. The spatial distribution of the RCFF exhibited a distinct trend, showing a gradual decrease from the northeast to the southwest in Qianjiang, and a low-RCFF area in the southwest. This evaluation system enables local government decisionmakers to comprehend the current status of rice–crayfish field management and construction. It facilitates the scientific planning of rice–crayfish field layouts and provides guidance for farmers in their expansion strategies. This method can be promoted in counties (cities) where rice–crayfish fields are primarily distributed in the Yangtze River Basin, promoting the transition of traditional agriculture to environmentally friendly agriculture in China.

Enhancing Crop Resilience: Advances and Challenges in Marker-Assisted Selection for Disease Resistance

Marker-assisted selection (MAS) has emerged as a pivotal technique in crop improvement programs, enabling the identification and incorporation of disease-resistant traits in crops. This review highlights the significance of MAS in enhancing disease resistance, the current state of research, and the challenges faced in its implementation. Various case studies, including successful applications in crops such as rice, wheat, and maize, demonstrate the potential of MAS in sustainable agriculture. The review also discusses the integration of MAS with other modern breeding techniques and emphasizes the need for advanced genomic tools for future advancements in this field. The development of advanced molecular markers, high-throughput screening techniques, and the incorporation of genomic selection approaches have all contributed to recent developments in MAS. Even in intricate polygenic situations, these developments have significantly improved t+he precision and speed of discovering disease-resistant characteristics. Case studies involving important crops such as maize, wheat, and rice show how MAS can be successfully applied to create varieties with improved resistance to certain diseases, significantly lowering crop losses and reduced use of pesticides. These developments have consequences that go beyond the purely technical; they could have a big influence on environmentally friendly agriculture methods, cost effectiveness, and sustainable development. This study addresses the possible future path of MAS in crop breeding and summarizes the major discoveries from current research, highlighting both the successes and difficulties in the field. The body of data highlights MAS as a critical instrument in the toolbox of the contemporary breeder, essential for satisfying the ever-increasing demands of a world that is changing quickly.

Anggapan Pestisida Sebagai Obat Bagi Petani Bawang Merah Di Kabupaten Solok Dan Konsekwensinya Pada Lingkungan

Increasing shallot production in Lembah Gumanti District, Solok Regency, is very dependent on the use of pesticides. Farmers seem to view pesticides as plant healing medicines rather than dangerous poisons. This research aims to determine farmers' perceptions about pesticides, and farmers' behavior in using pesticides and their influence on public health risks. The research was conducted in Nagari Sungai Nanam, Lembah Gumanti District, Solok Regency. The research uses descriptive qualitative research methods combined with a quantitative approach. Data collection techniques using questionnaires and interviews with a sample of 98 shallot farmers were selected using simple random sampling. The research results show that the majority of farmers have a positive perception of pesticides, viewing them as poisons that are dangerous but beneficial if used according to the rules. Most farmers have positive behavior in terms of knowledge, attitudes and actions, such as choosing the type of pesticide, spraying time, paying attention to the weather, using personal protective equipment and disposing of pesticide packaging. Negative behaviors such as excessive dosage and high spraying frequency are still found. Farmers' positive behavior has a good impact on the environment, especially reducing the risk of poisoning. The impacts of pesticide use such as dizziness/nausea/skin irritation were never felt by respondents who used complete PPE (52%), and some always experienced these impacts (4%). The use of pesticides according to regulations has never had an impact on respondents (53%). The use of pesticides has quite an impact on health risks and the sustainability of environmentally friendly agriculture

Molecular identification and characterizations of rhizobacterial isolates collected from lentil rhizosphere of Indo-gangetic plains.

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are also known to colonize in the soil rhizosphere and prevent the development of other soil borne pathogens residing in the root surface. These microorganisms play a vital role in growth and development of the plant and also enhances the soil fertility by enriching the soil with different beneficial nutrients. This study was aimed at isolation of different rhizobacteria and their molecular characterization in search of efficient bacterial strains with multiple growth regulating activities. A total 36 bacteria were isolated from lentil root nodule as well as soil from different lentil growing fields with a view to screen/evaluate their plant growth promoting potential. Morphological characterization of isolated rhizobacterial candidates were done by observing the colonies on YEMA and nutrient agar media. Determination of CFU, Congo red test and gram staining tests were done to further screen them according to their morphology. All the isolates were then undergone molecular phylogenetic analysis using the partial sequences of the 16S rDNA. Based upon the Gram staining test, all the isolates were negative in gram reaction except six Bacillus isolates, PSB2 and AB3. Results of Ribosomal Database Project (RDP) and Basic Local Alignment Search Tool for Nucleotide Sequences (BLASTn) from 16S rDNA gene sequences showed that these isolates are genetically diverse. A total of 15 isolates of Rhizobium, 6 isolates of Bacillus, 3 isolates of Pseudomonas, 2 isolates of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, 4 isolates of actinomycetes were identified by molecular sequencing of their 16S rDNA region and comparing them with the other isolates enlisted in the database of NCBI for the similarity percentage, query coverage. The purpose of the present study was to select native rhizosphere bacteria from the lentil nodule and soil of Lentil field and to evaluate their plant growth promoting potential as an alternative of chemical fertilizer for sustainable, environment friendly agriculture and assessment of their phylogenetic characterization.

Opportunity of the NEGFRY Decision Support System for the Sustainable Control of Potato Late Blight in A Limia (NW of Spain)

The NEGFRY system is presented in this research work as a novelty strategy for the control of potato late blight in A Limia (NW Spain). The aim was to analyse the number of fungicide applications established by NEGFRY (Decision Support System, DSS) with respect to the routine calendars of this potato production area. This approach is in accordance with the requirements imposed by European policies, participating in more profitable and environmentally friendly agriculture. For this purpose, the relationships between the pathogen and the environmental conditions and epidemiological parameters were analysed in different plots compared to late blight infection in both Routine and DSS strategies. In addition, economic and environmental impacts of fungicide sprays were also analysed to check the adaptability of the decision support system to late blight in the area. Results confirmed that it is possible to reduce sprays following the NEGFRY model by more than 50% compared with Routine applications. Therefore, NEGFRY is a promising strategy to achieve lower footprint potato yields through a reduction in applied pesticides and water, lower gas emissions and less soil compaction due to a reduction in the number of tractor passes over the soil. The commitment to this strategy contributes to improving the economy of farmers, the health of the biodiversity, the environment and consumers, as well as to comply with demands of global economies in terms of more sustainable and resilient agriculture.

Pertanian Ramah Lingkungan Melalui Pelatihan Pembuatan Pupuk Organik Cair Dari Limbah Dapur

Training on making liquid organic fertilizer from kitchen waste was introduced as an effort to encourage sustainable agriculture at the community level. This study aims to evaluate the impact of training in making liquid organic fertilizer from kitchen waste on agricultural practices in Sidomulyo village. The research methods used include surveys, interviews with farmers, and analysis of agricultural yield data before and after the implementation of liquid organic fertilizer. The research results show that this training has succeeded in increasing the understanding and application of sustainable agricultural practices among farmers. The positive impact of this training includes increasing plant productivity. Training also provides economic benefits by reducing fertilizer costs and increasing farmer income through better crop yields. Implementation of training on making liquid organic fertilizer from kitchen waste in Sidomulyo village is a concrete step in encouraging sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture. The results of this research have important implications for similar regions that want to introduce sustainable agricultural practices by utilizing local resources.

The Role of Insects in Sustainable Animal Feed Production for Environmentally Friendly Agriculture: A Review.

The growing demand for animal protein, the efficient use of land and water, and the limitations of non-renewable energy sources highlight the global importance of edible insects. This paper provides an overview of the key issues regarding the role of edible insects in sustainable feed production and environmentally friendly agriculture. The indispensable ecological services provided by insects are discussed, as well as the farming, products, and nutritional value of edible insects. A representative selection of the literature reviewing major insect species' chemical compositions and nutritional value is also presented. The use of insect-derived feeds for animal production is presented in detail and discussed for the major terrestrial livestock and aquaculture groups.

Penerapan Pertanian Regeneratif pada Perkebunan Kopi

Agronomy not only studies cultivation technology and agricultural production, but also examines the application of agricultural concepts and systems that continue to develop. The rapid and fundamental transformation of the agricultural system called the green revolution is based on the use of high inputs to increase agricultural production. The use of inputs that are not environmentally friendly and the emergence of environmental awareness encourages the transformation of agricultural systems into environmentally friendly agriculture such as ecofarming, organic farming, alternative farming, sustainable agriculture and regenerative agriculture. This article reviews the concepts of sustainable agriculture, degenerative agriculture, regenerative agriculture and the practice of implementing regenerative agriculture on coffee plantations. Degenerative agriculture is an agricultural practice that causes productivity to continue to decline as a result of a decrease in the carrying capacity of the agroecosystem, including soil, plants and other flora, fauna, microbes, climate and society. Sustainable agriculture aims to maintain a desired or improved level of ecosystem function, while regenerative agriculture aims to regenerate, renew, and further improve soil function and ecosystem capabilities in an ever-increasing process. The ecological pillars of regenerative agriculture include (1) soil health, (2) biodiversity, and (3) livestock-crop integration. Regenerative coffee plantation practices include the use of superior clones or varieties, grafting, planting shade trees and mixed crops, and livestock integration.Keywords : Biodiversity, degenerative, integrated, sustainable, regenerative agriculture

Climate change policy instruments in agriculture sector: From policy to adaptation practice at local level in Nepal

The current study explores synergies between climate change policy instruments and agriculture sector, reviews identified gaps and understands the translation of policy instruments at local level in five sample municipalities of three ecological regions. Understanding the adaptation actions and knowledge on implementation practices at household level is as the objective of this study. It adopted qualitative research approach using both primary (KII, FGD and household survey) and secondary data (review of existing policy documents) based on qualitative document analysis, (QDA). The study found that, policy and programs formulation at national and sub-national level in different period, are designed within the same setting from national to local level but there is divergence in programs formulation and implementation methods. Capacity and understanding of policy instruments has resulted different policy output which implicate farmers’ response to implementation practices. It is found that municipal authorities are implementing climate friendly agriculture programs without explicitly declaring climate action. The farmers are practicing autonomous adaption in agriculture with limited understanding and technical knowledge of long term climate change effect on farming. This has resulted maladaptive practices, which has contested planned climate change adaptation plan and programs. It devaluates the effort and resources spent by national and international institutions on CC policy instrument formulation and implementation. The need of field based demonstrative understanding and awareness campaigns for smallholder farmers is anticipated. It concludes that, flexibility of policy instruments through regular improvements and modification aids context-specific localization provide custom solutions. The custom solution match the traditional and existing adaptation practices assuring ownership at ground level.

Responses of labile organic carbon fractions and mineralized carbon to straw return combined with fertilizer application in the maize–Melilotus officinalis intercropping system

AbstractMollisol is crucial for solving food security issues, but long‐term excessive application of chemical fertilizers has led to severe Mollisol degradation in Northeast China, especially a rapid decline in soil organic carbon (SOC). In context of the use of crop‐herbage intercropping and straw return as alternatives for some chemical fertilizers, it is important to understand how crop‐herbage intercropping and straw return combined with chemical fertilizers influence labile organic carbon (LOC) fractions that improve SOC. To address this, this study explored how the combined application of maize (Zea mays L.)–Melilotus officinalis intercropping, straw return, and chemical fertilizers affect LOC fractions and mineralized carbon (MC) from the perspective of physical property‐mediated pathways. Thus, a field experiment with six treatments was established in the Songnen Plain of Northeast China: (1) maize monoculture without chemical fertilizers and straw return (CK), (2) maize monoculture with chemical fertilizers and no straw return (CF), (3) maize monoculture with chemical fertilizers and straw return (CFS), (4) maize–M. officinalis intercropping and straw return combined with full application of chemical fertilizers (CFSM), (5) maize–M. officinalis intercropping and straw return combined with half application of chemical fertilizers (1/2CFSM), and (6) maize–M. officinalis intercropping and straw return without chemical fertilizers (SM). The CF and CFS groups had no effect on bulk density and porosity but reduced specific gravity. The CFSM group increased water contents, porosity, LOC fractions, SOC, MC, and CO2 release rate and decreased bulk density and specific gravity. Compared with the CF group, the 1/2CFSM group enhanced water contents, microbial biomass carbon, and water‐soluble organic carbon (WSOC) to 6.36%, 17.91%, and 11.6%, respectively. We found that maize–M. officinalis intercropping, straw return, and reducing chemical fertilizers application improved LOC fractions to increase SOC by positively affecting bulk density, specific gravity, and water contents. Further analysis indicated that WSOC was a key determinant of SOC and maize yields. These findings provide a strategy to increase SOC and rehabilitate degraded soils through crop‐herbage intercropping and straw return combined with reducing chemical fertilizers application, which will contribute to a sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture.

Sustainable animal agriculture in the United States and the implication in Republic of Korea.

Agriculture has played a significant role in the national economy, contributing to food security, driving economic growth, and safeguarding the dietary habits of the population. Korean agriculture has been compelled to focus on intensive farming due to its limited cultivation area, excessive input costs, and the limitations of agricultural mechanization. In the Republic of Korea (R.O.K), the concept of environmentally friendly animal agriculture began to be introduced in the early 2000s. This concept ultimately aims to cultivate sustainable animal agriculture (SAA) through environmentally friendly production practices, ensuring the healthy rearing of animals to supply safe animal products. Despite the government's efforts, there are still significant challenges in implementing environmentally friendly agriculture and SAA in the R.O.K. Therefore, the objective of this review is to establish the direction that the animal agriculture sector should take in the era of climate crisis, and to develop effective strategies for SAA tailored to the current situation in the R.O.K by examining the trends in SAA in the U.S. The animal agriculture sector in the U.S. has been working towards creating a SAA system where humans, animals, and the environment can coexist through government initiatives, industry research, technological support, and individual efforts. Efforts have been made to reduce emissions like carbon, and improve factors affecting the environment such as the carbon footprint, odor, and greenhouse gases associated with animal agriculture processes for animals such as cattle and pigs. The transition of the U.S. towards SAA appears to be driven by both external goals related to addressing climate change and the primary objectives of responding to the demand for safe animal products, expanding consumption, and securing competitiveness in overseas export markets. The demand for animal welfare, organic animal products, and processed goods has been increasing in the U.S. consumer market. A major factor in the transformation of the U.S. animal agriculture sector in terms of livestock specifications is attributed to environmentally friendly practices such as high-quality feed, heat stress reduction, improvements in reproductive ability and growth period reduction, and efforts in animal genetic enhancement.

Toxicity of agrochemicals: Impact on environment and human health

Agrochemicals, while essential for increasing agricultural yields and pest control, have unintended consequences. They contaminate soil and water, disrupting ecosystems, reducing biodiversity, and threatening aquatic life. Furthermore, agrochemicals harm non-target organisms, disrupting ecological balance. On the human health front, farmworkers and pesticide applicators face acute poisoning risks, with symptoms ranging from discomfort to severe illness or death. Chronic health effects include links to cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive problems, raising concerns about food safety and worker well-being. Addressing agrochemical toxicity requires a multifaceted approach. Governments must enforce strict regulations to minimize environmental contamination and ensure safe handling practices. The agricultural industry can adopt sustainable methods like integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming to reduce reliance on agrochemicals. Innovations such as precision agriculture, biological pest control, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence for early risk detection are essential. Collaboration among stakeholders is critical for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture sector, involving regulatory measures like maximum residue limits (MRLs) and sustainable practices like IPM and organic farming. In summary, this review highlights the urgent need to address agrochemical toxicity holistically, balancing agricultural productivity with environmental and health concerns to ensure a sustainable future for agriculture and the planet.

Sustainable cultivation of red chili plants (Capsicum annuum L.) through a composition of NPK and biological organics fertilizers

One form of sustainable agricultural activity that can be carried out is by implementing environmentally friendly agriculture, such as applying inorganic and biological organic fertilizers. The research aims to obtain a composition of NPK doses and biological organic fertilizer on red chili plants in reducing use of NPK fertilizer to support sustainable chili farming. The fertilizer provided is in the form of palm oil processing waste (sludge) and biofertilizer based on a bacterial consortium. The experimental design used in this research was a completely randomized design (CRD) with six treatments and four replications. The treatment given consisted of a composition of 100% NPK added petroganics (P1), added sludge compost (P2), a composition of 75% NPK added sludge compost (P3), added sludge compost + biofertilizer (P4), a composition of 50% NPK added sludge compost and biofertilizer (P5), and a composition of 25% NPK added sludge compost and biofertilizer (P6). Based on the results, the composition of 75% NPK added sludge compost + biofertilizer gave results relatively the same as the composition of 100% NPK + petroganic fertilizer in several parameters. This shows that sludge compost + biofertilizer can reduce the use of inorganic fertilizer by as much as 25%.

Monitoring Behaviour Change of Farmers to Support Ecologically Friendly Agricultural Management Program in Peatland Ecosystems

Conserving peatland areas requires the commitment and the capacities of all stakeholders, including farmers living within the areas. Two business models, agro-silvo-fishery and Trigona apiculture, have been established in a demonstration plot in the peatland ecosystem of Baru Village, Banyuasin, South Sumatra, as new options for farmers to improve livelihoods while also managing peatland sustainably. Trainings on sustainable production, post-harvest, and markets were provided to the rice-based farmers to help them manage new livelihood options. Monitoring the behavioural transformation of farmers engaged in the two business model pilots is a crucial aspect of the program. This is accomplished using the ADKAR approach, which posits that attaining long-term behavioural change involves progressing through stages of Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement. A survey instrument was created to monitor farmers behaviour changes in (i) collective action, and (ii) managing agroecosystems sustainably, reflecting collaborative effort required to conserve peatland. Prior to the intervention program, a baseline survey (n=43) was conducted to record farmers’ current knowledge. The findings revealed that most farmers (60%) never joined a group but motivated to actively participate, whereas 25% of farmers had actively participated in groups and were eager to urge other farmers to join. Most farmers (52%) acknowledge the significance of safeguarding peatland areas but lack the knowledge to do so, whereas 25% have implemented ecologically friendly agricultural management in peatland areas. When the program began, none of the farmers were involved in agro-silvo-fishery or Trigona apiculture. According to a mid-program assessment aimed at recording the performance of the business models, 3 farmers have adopted apiculture with a total of 101 beehives. While none of the farmers adopt agro-silvo-fishery individually, 5 farmers produced organic fertilizer individually using the training program’s new competence. However, producing organic fertilizer as collective action was halted, suggesting farmers partiality to work individually rather than collectively. A final survey to assess behavioural changes is planned towards the end of the program next year. The ADKAR approach for monitoring farmers’ behavior change is useful for evaluating the performance of intervention programs and seek solutions to ensure it is aligned with the landscape level NRM goals.