Global Food Demand Research Articles

Intelligent technologies and their transformative role in modern agriculture: A comparative approach

The escalating global demand for food, propelled by a burgeoning population and the unpredictable shifts in climatic conditions, presents a challenge that traditional plant breeding alone struggles to address. In response to this pressing need, the infusion of intelligent technologies emerges as a pivotal solution, poised not only to boost production but also to meet the burgeoning demand. This transformative approach encompasses a spectrum of cutting-edge tools, including Remote Sensing and GIS, Aeroponics, Drone Technology, Biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and, ultimately, Robotics. The synergistic integration of these technologies will enhance agricultural monitoring by facilitating precise crop surveillance, early detection and mitigation of diseases and pests, optimization of water resources, accurate mapping of land use and crop types, comprehensive environmental monitoring, real-time weather and climate tracking, efficient nutrient management, precise irrigation and spraying practices, reliable yield prediction, advanced demand forecasting, genetic analysis, and informed decision-making processes. The amalgamation of intelligent technologies with modern plant breeding methodologies signifies a significant advancement towards achieving more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices. This convergence not only addresses the immediate need for increased food production but also sets the stage for a resilient and future-ready agricultural landscape. In this era of integration, we witness the harmonious coexistence of tradition and innovation, paving the way for a more abundant and secure agricultural future.

From growth inhibition to ultrastructural changes: Toxicological assessment of lambda cyhalothrin and fosetyl aluminium against Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

In modern agricultural practices, agrochemicals and pesticides play an important role in protecting the crops from pests and elevating agricultural productivity. This strategic utilization is essential to meet global food demand due to the relentless growth of the world's population. However, the indiscriminate application of these substances may result in environmental hazards and directly affect the soil microorganisms and crop production. Considering this, an in vitro study was carried out to evaluate the pesticides' effects i.e. lambda cyhalothrin (insecticide) and fosetyl aluminum (fungicide) at lower, recommended, and higher doses on growth behavior, enzymatic profile, total soluble protein production, and lipid peroxidation of bacterial specimens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis). The experimental findings demonstrated a concentration-dependent decrease in growth of both tested bacteria, when exposed to fosetyl aluminium concentrations exceeding the recommended dose. This decline was statistically significant (p < 0.000). However, lambda cyhalothrin at three times of recommended dose induces 10% increase in growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and 76.8% decrease in growth of Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) respectively as compared to control. These results showed the stimulatory effect of lambda cyhalothrin on P. aeruginosa and inhibitory effect on B. subtilis. Pesticides induced notable alterations in biomarker enzymatic assays and other parameters related to oxidative stress among bacterial strains, resulting in increased oxidative stress and membrane permeability. Generally, the maximum toxicity of both (P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis) was shown by fosetyl aluminium, at three times of recommended dose. Fosetyl aluminium induced morphological changes like cellular cracking, reduced viability, aberrant margins and more damage in both bacterial strains as compared to lambda cyhalothrin when observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Conclusively the, present study provide an insights into a mechanistic approach of pyrethroid insecticide and phosphonite fungicide induced cellular toxicity towards bacteria.

Ageing influences the toxicity of two innovative nanofertilizers to the soil invertebrates Enchytraeus crypticus and Folsomia candida

The increasing global food demand is threatening the sustainability of agrifood production systems. The intensification of agricultural practices, with inadequate use of pesticides and fertilizers, poses major challenges to the good functioning of agroecosystems and drastically degrades the soil quality. Nanotechnology is expected to optimize the current farming practices and mitigate some associated impacts. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are a class of nanomaterials with high potential for use in agricultural productions, mostly due to their sustained release of nutrients. Considering its novelty and lack of studies on the terrestrial ecosystem, it is essential to assess potential long-term harmful consequences to non-target organisms. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of Zn–Al–NO3 LDH and Mg–Al–NO3 LDH ageing on the survival and reproduction of two soil invertebrate species Enchytraeus crypticus and Folsomia candida. We postulated that the toxicity of nanomaterials to soil invertebrates would change with time, such that the ageing of soil amendments would mediate their impacts on both species. Our results showed that the toxicity of LDHs was species-dependent, with Zn–Al–NO3 LDH being more toxic to E. crypticus, while Mg–Al–NO3 LDH affected more F. candida, especially in the last ageing period, where reproduction was the most sensitive biological parameter. The toxicity of both nanomaterials increased with ageing time, as shown by the decrease of the EC50 values over time. The influence of LDH dissolution and availability of Zn and Mg in the soil pore water was the main factor related to the toxicity, although we cannot rule out the influence of other structural constituents of LDHs (e.g., nitrates and aluminium). This study supports the importance of incorporating ageing in the ecotoxicity testing of nanomaterials, considering their slow release, as effects on soil organisms can change and lead to more severe impacts on the ecosystem functioning.

Various optimized machine learning techniques to predict agricultural commodity prices

AbstractRecent increases in global food demand have made this research and, therefore, the prediction of agricultural commodity prices, almost imperative. The aim of this paper is to build efficient artificial intelligence methods to effectively forecast commodity prices in light of these global events. Using three separate, well-structured models, the commodity prices of eleven major agricultural commodities that have recently caused crises around the world have been predicted. In achieving its objective, this paper proposes a novel forecasting model for agricultural commodity prices using the extreme learning machine technique optimized with the genetic algorithm. In predicting the eleven commodities, the proposed model, the extreme learning machine with the genetic algorithm, outperforms the model formed by the combination of long short-term memory with the genetic algorithm and the autoregressive integrated moving average model. Despite the fluctuations and changes in agricultural commodity prices in 2022, the extreme learning machine with the genetic algorithm model described in this study successfully predicts both qualitative and quantitative behavior in such a large number of commodities and over such a long period of time for the first time. It is expected that these predictions will provide benefits for the effective management, direction and, if necessary, restructuring of agricultural policies by providing food requirements that adapt to the dynamic structure of the countries.

Advancing horizons in vegetable cultivation: a journey from ageold practices to high-tech greenhouse cultivation-a review.

Vegetable cultivation stands as a pivotal element in the agricultural transformation illustrating a complex interplay between technological advancements, evolving environmental perspectives, and the growing global demand for food. This comprehensive review delves into the broad spectrum of developments in modern vegetable cultivation practices. Rooted in historical traditions, our exploration commences with conventional cultivation methods and traces the progression toward contemporary practices emphasizing the critical shifts that have refined techniques and outcomes. A significant focus is placed on the evolution of seed selection and quality assessment methods underlining the growing importance of seed treatments in enhancing both germination and plant growth. Transitioning from seeds to the soil, we investigate the transformative journey from traditional soil-based cultivation to the adoption of soilless cultures and the utilization of sustainable substrates like biochar and coir. The review also examines modern environmental controls highlighting the use of advanced greenhouse technologies and artificial intelligence in optimizing plant growth conditions. We underscore the increasing sophistication in water management strategies from advanced irrigation systems to intelligent moisture sensing. Additionally, this paper discusses the intricate aspects of precision fertilization, integrated pest management, and the expanding influence of plant growth regulators in vegetable cultivation. A special segment is dedicated to technological innovations, such as the integration of drones, robots, and state-of-the-art digital monitoring systems, in the cultivation process. While acknowledging these advancements, the review also realistically addresses the challenges and economic considerations involved in adopting cutting-edge technologies. In summary, this review not only provides a comprehensive guide to the current state of vegetable cultivation but also serves as a forward-looking reference emphasizing the critical role of continuous research and the anticipation of future developments in this field.

Impact of Micro-nutrients on Growth and Development of Fodder Crops under Water Stress Condition: A Review

This article delves into the critical significance of micronutrients specifically in fodder crop production, highlighting their profound impact on crop growth, yield, quality, and sustainable farming practices. Despite being required in trace amounts, micronutrients are essential for ensuring the health and productivity of livestock, as they serve as vital components of the forage consumed by animals. Micronutrients act as indispensable cofactors for enzymes involved in crucial metabolic processes essential for plant health and subsequent livestock nutrition. They play a pivotal role in enhancing fodder crop yield and improving its nutritional content, thus directly contributing to the overall health and productivity of livestock populations. Furthermore, proper management of micronutrients in fodder crop production is essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of agricultural ecosystems. Sustainable farming practices that prioritize micronutrient balance not only optimize crop yields but also promote soil health and environmental sustainability. This research aims to address the complex challenges of ensuring livestock health, meeting global food demands, and promoting responsible agricultural practices within animal agriculture. In conclusion, the role of micronutrients in fodder crop production is paramount for ensuring the health and productivity of livestock, as well as supporting sustainable farming practices. Recognizing the significance of micronutrients in fodder crop production and implementing tailored management strategies are essential steps toward achieving livestock health, sustainable farming practices, and ultimately, food security in the context of animal agriculture. .

Advancements in Remote Sensing Imagery Applications for Precision Management in Olive Growing: A Systematic Review

This systematic review explores the role of remote sensing technology in addressing the requirements of sustainable olive growing, set against the backdrop of growing global food demands and contemporary environmental constraints in agriculture. The critical analysis presented in this document assesses different remote sensing platforms (satellites, manned aircraft vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles and terrestrial equipment) and sensors (RGB, multispectral, thermal, hyperspectral and LiDAR), emphasizing their strategic selection based on specific study aims and geographical scales. Focusing on olive growing, particularly prominent in the Mediterranean region, this article analyzes the diverse applications of remote sensing, including the management of inventory and irrigation; detection/monitoring of diseases and phenology; and estimation of crucial parameters regarding biophysical parameters, water stress indicators, crop evapotranspiration and yield. Through a global perspective and insights from studies conducted in diverse olive-growing regions, this review underscores the potential benefits of remote sensing in shaping and improving sustainable agricultural practices, mitigating environmental impacts and ensuring the economic viability of olive trees.

A tale of two eras: assessing the impact of breeding programs on historical and modern German wheat cultivars under distinct management

Breeding advancements have significantly improved grain yield over recent decades, yet further progress is needed to meet global food demands amid a growing population. In this study, we systematically examine the responses of both historical and modern winter wheat cultivars, released between 1895 and 2007 in Germany, to varying management intensities. We quantified the independent contributions of nitrogen (N) levels, growth regulators, and plant protection measures to crop productivity and growth variables over two growing seasons. Historical cultivars (pre-1960) exhibited a lower yield (4.6 t ha−1) and harvest index (0.30) compared to modern cultivars (post-1960), which demonstrated a higher yield (6.8 t ha−1) and harvest index (0.40) across all treatments, even those excluding both nitrogen and agrochemicals. We found positive trends in the yield and yield components for both historical (1895–1960) and modern (1961–2007) cultivars; however, significance was only noted for modern cultivars. Crop growth in historical cultivars was aided more by growth regulators, while modern cultivars gained more benefits from plant protection. However, both categories of cultivars produced a synergistic response when combining agronomic practices. Based on a comparison of N application rates and agronomic practices, N had a distinctly greater impact on yield and yield components than other treatments. In both historical and modern cultivars, grain number per ear was the most influential contributing factor to yield. Nevertheless, the effect of the thousand grain weight on yield was notably less for modern cultivars compared to their historical ones. Grain nitrogen yield increased up to mid-supply nitrogen application but remained constant at high rates. Results underscored that cultivar-specific responses for yield and yield components need to consider the interactions between fertilization and other agronomic practices.

Harnessing market based mechanisms to improve water quality: Water quality trading policies in the river Alde, UK

Nitrogen fertiliser in agriculture continues to be one of the largest contributors to water pollution driven by the global food demand. Consequently, policies designed to tackle nitrogen pollution tend to be focused on the farm level. Applying mitigation measures requires knowledge, local labour and financial investment to achieve desired goals. Influencing farming activity comes with challenges as policies result in economic losses. We propose Water Quality Trading (WQT) to minimize the cost of controlling water pollution and develop it for policy recommendations in the River Alde catchment in Suffolk. We apply WQT to three scenarios named Reference Pollution Target, Livestock Target Plan and Variation of Farming. Our findings demonstrate that WQT can reduce farmers nitrogen load by 8%, 7% and 18% respectively from the baseline of 6 mg/L. The scenario simulations show a net revenue increase of 6%, 5% and 18% respectively. Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of the WQT approach in reducing water pollution, promoting sustainable agriculture and meeting water management goals.

Indonesian Agricultural Industry Innovation to Create World Food Storage in 2045

The issue of food safety and food security has become an international concern, given the increasing global food demand due to the food crisis caused by the Covid 19 pandemic. Indonesia is trying to become a global food supplier through the Indonesian government's vision of "World Food Barn 2045". This article uses the approach of the theoretical debate between Ester Boserup, Mark Nathan Cohen, Michael Lipton, Parker G. Marden, and Warren C. Robinson which states that there is a relationship between variables of food availability, changes in agricultural technology, and population growth in the world. The results of the author's research in this article assume that in handling the issue of the global food crisis it is necessary for each country to sustain the event, Indonesia seeks to sustain the global food crisis through the implementation of an "Integrated Agriculture System" that integrates the agricultural sector and the livestock sector.

Environmental, economic and quality assessment of hybrid solar-electric drying of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae

The exploration of insects as a sustainable protein source is gaining interest as an alternative solution to ensure food security and meet the increasing global food demand. Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae (BSFL) present a natural and sustainable protein source for both feed and food applications. In the process of incorporating them into feed and food products, larvae typically undergo a drying stage as the initial step. This research aims to delve into the Hybrid Solar-Electrical Drying (HSED) of BSFL at four different temperatures: 40, 50, 60, and 70 °C. The energy payback time for the dryer is determined to be 1.57 ± 0.09 years, with CO2 emissions measuring 72.58 ± 2.90 kg CO2/year and a net CO2 mitigation of 57.19 ± 2.35 tons over its lifespan, highlighting its environmentally friendly nature. The proposed HSED system exhibits a remarkably short payback period of only 0.71 years. Furthermore, the dryer has the potential to save up to 1496.04 USD annually, emphasizing its economic efficiency and financial benefits. The larvae dried using the HSED have a protein content ranging from 38.14 ± 0.28% to 42.33 ± 0.12% exceeding the minimum requirement of 34% set by leading companies in the insect production market. This makes them highly competitive in the market. Furthermore, the dried larvae produced with this hybrid dryer exhibit superior quality compared to conventional drying methods, specifically in terms of protein content, with a margin of 7.08%.

Perspective: The Place of Pork Meat in Sustainable Healthy Diets

The food systems sustainability framework has 4 domains: nutrition, economics, environment, and society. To qualify as sustainable, individual foods and total diets need to be nutrient-rich, affordable, environmentally friendly, and socially acceptable. Pork is the most consumed meat globally, providing high-quality protein and several priority micronutrients. With research attention focused on plant-based diets, it is time to assess the place of pork meat protein in the global sustainability framework. First, not all proteins are equal. The United States Department of Agriculture category of protein foods includes meat, poultry and fish, eggs, beans and legumes, and nuts and seeds. These protein sources have different protein digestibility profiles, different per-calorie prices, and different environmental footprints, measured in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. Second, most analyses of animal-source proteins combine beef, pork, and lamb into a single category of red meat. Beef, pork, and lamb have different nutrient profiles, different protein costs, and different impacts on the environment. Future analyses of nutrient density and monetary and carbon costs of alternative diets would do well to separate pork from beef, lamb, and chicken. There are also different profiles of global food demand. Prior analyses of global Food and Agriculture Organization Statistical Database food balance sheets joined with World Bank country incomes have consistently shown that rising incomes across lower- and middle-income countries (LMIC) create a growing demand for meat to replace traditional plant proteins. Most of the observed increase has been for pork and chicken rather than beef. This ongoing LMIC protein transition toward more animal proteins may be irreversible as long as incomes grow. The present analyses explore the place of pork in sustainable healthy diets worldwide, given the need for high-quality protein and the predictable patterns of global food demand.

Label-free functional analysis of root-associated microbes with dynamic quantitative oblique back-illumination microscopy

The increasing global demand for food, coupled with concerns about the environmental impact of synthetic fertilizers, underscores the urgency of developing sustainable agricultural practices. Nitrogen-fixing bacteria, known as diazotrophs, offer a potential solution by converting atmospheric nitrogen into bioavailable forms, reducing the reliance on synthetic fertilizers. However, a deeper understanding of their interactions with plants and other microbes is needed. In this study, we introduce a recently developed label-free 3D quantitative phase imaging technology called dynamic quantitative oblique back-illumination microscopy (DqOBM) to assess the functional dynamic activity of diazotrophs in vitro and in situ. Our experiments involved three different diazotrophs (Sinorhizobium meliloti, Azotobacter vinelandii, and Rahnella aquatilis) cultured on media with amendments of carbon and nitrogen sources. Over 5 days, we observed increased dynamics in nutrient-amended media. These results suggest that the observed bacterial dynamics correlate with their metabolic activity. Furthermore, we applied qOBM to visualize microbial dynamics within the root cap and elongation zone of Arabidopsis thaliana primary roots. This allowed us to identify distinct areas of microbial infiltration in plant roots without the need for fluorescent markers. Our findings demonstrate that DqOBM can effectively characterize microbial dynamics and provide insights into plant-microbe interactions in situ, offering a valuable tool for advancing our understanding of sustainable agriculture.

Iron/Copper/Phosphate nanocomposite as antimicrobial, antisnail, and wheat growth-promoting agent

BackgroundOne of the current challenges is to secure wheat crop production to meet the increasing global food demand and to face the increase in its purchasing power. Therefore, the current study aimed to exploit a new synthesized nanocomposite to enhance wheat growth under both normal and drought regime. The effectiveness of this nanocomposite in improving the microbiological quality of irrigation water and inhibiting the snail’s growth was also assessed.ResultsUpon the employed one-step synthesis process, a spherical Fe/Cu/P nanocomposite was obtained with a mean particle size of 4.35 ± 1.524 nm. Cu2+, Fe2+, and P4+ were detected in the dried nanocomposite at 14.533 ± 0.176, 5.200 ± 0.208, and 34.167 ± 0.203 mg/ml concentration, respectively. This nanocomposite was found to exert antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. It caused good inhibition percent against Fusarium oxysporum (43.5 ± 1.47%) and reduced both its germination rate and germination efficiency. The lethal concentration 50 (LC50) of this nanocomposite against Lanistes carinatus snails was 76 ppm. The treated snails showed disturbance in their feeding habit and reached the prevention state. Significant histological changes were observed in snail digestive tract and male and female gonads. Drought stress on wheat’s growth was mitigated in response to 100 and 300 ppm treatments. An increase in all assessed growth parameters was reported, mainly in the case of 100 ppm treatment under both standard and drought regimes. Compared to control plants, this stimulative effect was accompanied by a 2.12-fold rise in mitotic index and a 3.2-fold increase in total chromosomal abnormalities.ConclusionThe finding of the current study could be employed to mitigate the effect of drought stress on wheat growth and to enhance the microbiological quality of irrigation water. This is due to the increased efficacy of the newly synthesized Fe/Cu/P nanocomposite against bacteria, fungi, and snails. This methodology exhibits potential for promoting sustainable wheat growth and water resource conservation.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Technology in Aeroponics: Presenting the Adoption and Integration of Technology in Sustainable Agriculture Practices

Aeroponics is a soilless farming method in which plants are grown by sprinkling a nutrient-rich fluid over their roots. Aeroponics has changed as a result of technology, which now offers advantages including automated nutrient supply, environmental management, and plant health monitoring. A key area of concern in light of the rising global food demand, climate change, and environmental issues is sustainable agriculture. This article highlights the integration of technology, sustainability, and socio-economic elements in modern agriculture by methodically examining the development of aeroponics practices from conventional ways to innovative modern techniques. When agronomic practices are viewed historically, they show a shift from labor-intensive, antiquated techniques to precision-based, technology-driven processes. Even though they were sustainable, traditional methods frequently had efficiency and scalability issues. A big change came with the arrival of the Green Revolution, which brought synthetic inputs and high-yield crop varieties. However, a reevaluation towards more sustainable practices was spurred by the approaches' long-term ecological implications. Precision agriculture, which makes use of sensor-based monitoring systems, artificial intelligence (AI), satellite and drone technologies, is a major feature of modern agronomy breakthroughs. According to the systematic research, Industry 4.0 and sensor technology are the most often used technologies in aeroponics. Numerous advantages, including time efficiency and sustainability, have come from these technologies. On the other hand, the research focused on power dependence and technical complexity as the primary obstacles in technology-assisted aeroponics.

Green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles for mitigation of chromium stress and anti-oxidative potential in Triticumaestivum

With rapid growth of population, global food demand and environmental stressors such as heavy metal contamination are threatening task for researchers. However, advent of nanotechnology in recent years has emerged as a promising solution to these challenges. The present study aimed was to investigated the effect of biosynthesized Fe2O3-NPs in the mitigation of Cr stress on Triticum aestivum. Phyto-Synthesized Fe2O3-NPs were prepared and confirmed by Ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectra at peak at 299 nm. Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) results showed presence of Fe–O. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a round with irregular patterns of Fe2O3-NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a crystalline rhombohedral structure. The zeta potential (ZP) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements of Fe2O3-NPs with values of −20.6 mV, suggesting appropriate physical stability. Morphological analysis of Triticum aestivum in presence of Fe2O3-NPs showed a significant decrease in shoot, root length 18% and 24% respectively and weight 18% and 26% under stress of 350 ppm concentration of Cr. On contrary, Fe2O3-NPs showed an increase in root and shoot length of 8% and 12% and weight 19% and 30% respectively. Fe2O3-NPs improved antioxidant enzyme activities like Superoxide dismutase, Peroxidase, Catalase, and Ascorbate Peroxidase by reducing the effect of Cr. Histochemical analysis also showed an improvement in the viability and permeability of cells on Fe2O3-NPs application. In conclusion, this study confirmed the potential of Fe2O3-NPs to improve the performance of T. aestivum under Cr stress by enhancing the antioxidant enzyme activities.

Perovskite Nanocrystals: Superior Luminogens for Food Quality Detection Analysis.

With the global limited food resources receiving grievous damage from frequent climate changes and ascending global food demand resulting from increasing population growth, perovskite nanocrystals with distinctive photoelectric properties have emerged as attractive and prospective luminogens for the exploitation of rapid, easy operation, low cost, highly accurate, excellently sensitive, and good selective biosensors to detect foodborne hazards in food practices. Perovskite nanocrystals have demonstrated supreme advantages in luminescent biosensing for food products due to their high photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield, narrow full width at half-maximum PL, tunable PL in the entire visible spectrum, easy preparation, and various modification strategies compared with conventional semiconductors. Herein, we have carried out a comprehensive discussion concerning perovskite nanocrystals as luminogens in the application of high-performance biosensing of foodborne hazards for food products, including a brief introduction of perovskite nanocrystals, perovskite nanocrystal-based biosensors, and their application in different categories of food products. Finally, the challenges and opportunities faced by perovskite nanocrystals as superior luminogens were proposed to promote their practicality in the future food supply.

Recent Trends and Advances in Additive-Mediated Composting Technology for Agricultural Waste Resources: A Comprehensive Review.

Agriculture waste has increased annually due to the global food demand and intensive animal production. Preventing environmental degradation requires fast and effective agricultural waste treatment. Aerobic digestion or composting uses agricultural wastes to create a stabilized and sterilized organic fertilizer and reduces chemical fertilizer input. Indeed, conventional composting technology requires a large surface area, a long fermentation period, significant malodorous emissions, inferior product quality, and little demand for poor end results. Conventional composting loses a lot of organic nitrogen and carbon. Thus, this comprehensive research examined sustainable and adaptable methods for improving agricultural waste composting efficiency. This review summarizes composting processes and examines how compost additives affect organic solid waste composting and product quality. Our findings indicate that additives have an impact on the composting process by influencing variables including temperature, pH, and moisture. Compost additive amendment could dramatically reduce gas emissions and mineral ion mobility. Composting additives can (1) improve the physicochemical composition of the compost mixture, (2) accelerate organic material disintegration and increase microbial activity, (3) reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) and ammonia (NH3) emissions to reduce nitrogen (N) losses, and (4) retain compost nutrients to increase soil nutrient content, maturity, and phytotoxicity. This essay concluded with a brief summary of compost maturity, which is essential before using it as an organic fertilizer. This work will add to agricultural waste composting technology literature. To increase the sustainability of agricultural waste resource utilization, composting strategies must be locally optimized and involve the created amendments in a circular economy.

Ability of Nutrient Management and Molecular Physiology Advancements to Overcome Abiotic Stress: A Study on Sub-Saharan African Crops

Abiotic stress is a major cause of the declining crop yield worldwide, especially in tropical agricultural areas. Meeting the global food demand has become a serious challenge, especially in tropical areas, because of soil acidity, Al and Fe toxicity, drought and heat stress, and climate change. In this article, we reviewed several research and review papers from Google Scholar to list the different solutions available for the mitigation of abiotic stress, especially in tropical regions where several major crops, such as maize, sorghum, wheat, rice, soybean, and millet, are affected by abiotic stress and fertilizer input. In particular, Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has been affected by the low use of fertilizers owing to their high cost. Therefore, soil and plant researchers and farmers have developed many techniques to mitigate the effects of stress and improve the crop yield based on the agroecological zone and crop type. Nutrient management using chemical fertilizers alone or in combination with organic crops is a strategy recommended to cope with abiotic stress and increase the crop yield, particularly in developing countries. Notably, integrated soil fertility management has been effective in semi-arid areas under drought and heat stress and in subhumid and humid areas with high soil acidity and Fe toxicity in Africa. Recent advances in the molecular physiology of various crops considered a staple food in SSA have facilitated the breeding of transgenic tolerant plants with high yield. However, the feasibility and implementation of this technique in the African continent and most tropical developing countries are major issues that can be solved via adequate subsidies and support to farmers. This review can aid in the development of novel strategies to decrease hunger and food insecurity in SSA.

AgriTech Revolution: Next-Generation Supply Chain in America's Agriculture

With the advent of the 21st century, a novel era of technological advancement has profoundly impacted several sectors, with the inclusion agriculture. This paper examines the transformative task of evolving technologies in reorchestrating the agricultural supply chain during the revolutionary wave of AgriTech in American agriculture. As part of this research, we will analyze how cutting-edge technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, bigdata, and blockchain, are being integrated, and examine how these technologies have an impact on agricultural practices, supply chain efficiency, and sustainability in general. With a comprehensive literature review and case study analysis, the study explores AgriTech in the United States and its trajectory towards a more data-driven, automated, and interconnected agriculture industry. The paper determines how these innovations lead to increased crop yields, improved resource management, and extra transparent and robust supply chains. Furthermore, the research addresses the challenges, including the digital divide, investment barriers, and skill gaps, which could impede the widespread adoption of these technologies. Furthermore, our study reignites the opportunities presented by AgriTech, such as reduced environmental footprint, improved food safety, and the potential to meet the increasing global food demand sustainably. The future endeavor speculates on the evolving landscape of AgriTech, positing a scenario where advanced technologies not only dictate farming practices but also reshape the entire food supply chain, from farm to fork. Hence, the research presents a critical analysis of the next-generation supply chain in American agriculture, driven by AgriTech innovations. The result aims to provide valuable insights for stakeholders such as farmers, agribusinesses, technology providers, policymakers, and consumers, offering a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic interplay between technology and agriculture in the modern era.