Reduce Nutrient Losses Research Articles

Contrasting the influence of crop rotation on phosphorus balances and losses in agricultural fields across a tile-drained landscape in Ohio, USA

Excess phosphorus (P) applied to agricultural fields accumulates in the soil profile and is susceptible to leaching, subsequently impacting adjacent and downstream aquatic ecosystems. Planting a series of crops in a field over a given period of time is considered conservation crop rotation, which may reduce nutrient losses by reducing P inputs (i.e., including crops with lower P requirements) and increasing P demand (i.e., by increasing biodiversity, vegetative land cover, and length of the growing season). Here, we calculated P balances (Inputs–Outputs) in agricultural fields with corn-soybean rotations (CS) and corn-soybean-wheat rotations (CSW) to determine P accumulation or depletion. We then compared P losses, as dissolved reactive P (DRP) and total P (TP), between the CS and CSW rotations. Results indicated annual P deficits in CS (median = −9 kg P/ha) and CSW (median = −5 kg P/ha) fields. However, DRP and TP losses persisted and were significantly greater from CSW (median = 0.5 kg DRP/ha and 2 kg TP/ha) compared to CS fields (median = 0.1 kg DRP/ha and 1 kg TP/ha), likely due to elevated soil test phosphorus (STP) concentrations in CSW fields. The fraction of applied P exported from fields as both DRP and TP was also greater in CSW (DRP = 2%; TP = 9%) compared to CS (DRP = 1%; TP = 3%), further confirming more available P susceptible to loss. Findings here highlight the need for further research between conventional and conservation crop rotation on fields with similar STP concentrations and emphasize the importance of P application in accordance with fertility recommendations.

Simplification of soil biota communities impairs nutrient recycling and enhances above- and belowground nitrogen losses.

Agriculture is a major source of nutrient pollution, posing a threat to the earth system functioning. Factors determining the nutrient use efficiency of plant-soil systems need to be identified to develop strategies to reduce nutrient losses while ensuring crop productivity. The potential of soil biota to tighten nutrient cycles by improving plant nutrition and reducing soil nutrient losses is still poorly understood. We manipulated soil biota communities in outdoor lysimeters, planted maize, continuously collected leachates, and measured N2 O- and N2 -gas emissions after a fertilization pulse to test whether differences in soil biota communities affected nutrient recycling and N losses. Lysimeters with strongly simplified soil biota communities showed reduced crop N (-20%) and P (-58%) uptake, strongly increased N leaching losses (+65%), and gaseous emissions (+97%) of N2 O and N2 . Soil metagenomic analyses revealed differences in the abundance of genes responsible for nutrient uptake, nitrate reduction, and denitrification that helped explain the observed nutrient losses. Soil biota are major drivers of nutrient cycling and reductions in the diversity or abundance of certain groups (e.g. through land-use intensification) can disrupt nutrient cycling, reduce agricultural productivity and nutrient use efficiency, and exacerbate environmental pollution and global warming.

The implications of food loss on East Africa's environment and water resources

Abstract Food losses threaten food security and sustainability in East Africa, a region that faces recurrent droughts and socio-economic shocks. The research utilized the water footprint method and the carbon emission factor to quantify the water footprint and the carbon footprint of food losses of five plant-based food varieties: cereals, vegetables, oil crops, fruits, and pulses. The study focused on the actual food losses in East Africa – Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania – obtained from the enhanced food balance sheets in 2017. The study finds that the volume of the water wasted associated with the food losses (green + blue) was 6,164.1 million m3 (M.m3). Food loss also contributes to the degradation of the environment in the form of greenhouse gases (e.g. CO2 and CH4) and a source of non-point pollution of water resources. As a result, the greywater footprint was 838.1 M.m3 and carbon emissions were 5.53 million tons. In contrast to Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda had the lowest carbon and water footprint. These results can further clarify our understanding of the regional and global impacts of food losses on the environment and suggest that reducing food losses can help improve food security, conserve water resources, and protect the environment.

Circular supply chain governance for sustainable fresh agricultural products: Minimizing food loss and utilizing agricultural waste

Food loss and agricultural waste continue to pose challenges to sustainable agricultural development. The circular economy approach is believed to address these challenges. However, the implementation of this approach requires the participation of all supply chain actors, which must be coordinated through governance. This paper aims to comprehend how supply chain governance supports the implementation of the circular economy in order to minimize food loss and maximize agricultural waste utilization. This study employs a mixed-methods analysis using a quantitative survey and qualitative focus group discussion data. Vegetable and dairy supply chains in West Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, are the cases of this study. The results indicate that 35 % of food is lost along the vegetable supply chain that prioritizes traditional markets. In contrast, food loss for vegetable supply chains that prioritize modern markets is only 15 %. For dairy supply chains facilitated by cooperatives, the rate of food loss amounts to 7 %. The Study found that supply chain governance, encompassing coordinated production plans, selling systems, price mechanisms, packaging systems, and the management of low-quality products, all contribute to reducing food loss under the circular economy principles. In terms of agricultural waste, most vegetable and dairy farmers (80 % and 75 % of respondents respectively) do not manage their agricultural waste properly. For this, connecting supply and demand for agricultural waste and enhancing knowledge among farmers are essential. This paper concludes that coordination and information sharing within and between supply chain actors are required to address food loss and agricultural waste problems.

Earthworms reduce nutrient loss from loess soil slopes under simulated rain

Burrowing, feeding, and casting activities of earthworms affect nutrient cycling and hydrological processes that take place in sloping lands. However, the effects exerted by earthworms on nutrient losses associated with runoff and sediment during rain remains unclear, particularly in the Loess Plateau, where soil erosion and nutrient loss have led to severe environmental issues. In this study, our purpose was to quantify the effects exerted by the anecic earthworm species, Metaphire guillelmi, on nutrient loss via runoff and erosion in loess soil slopes. Six artificial grass slopes (mesocosms, 15°), comprising three with earthworms (100 individuals m−2) for 28 days, and three without earthworms, were subjected to simulated rain (90 mm h−1) for 60 min. Our results indicated that earthworms had (i) increased the content of NO3–-N from 8.1 to 151.8 mg kg−1 and OP from 51.0 to 71.8 mg kg−1, but decreased the content of OC from 6.6 to 5.2 g kg−1, TN from 0.76 to 0.62 g kg−1, TP from 0.73 to 0.68 g kg−1 and NH4+-N from 3.7 to 2.4 mg kg−1 at surface 2 cm soil; (ii) increased water-stable macroaggregates from 45.1 to 48.3% and soil saturated water conductivity from 0.07 to 0.28 mm min−1, and (iii) greatly reduced the cumulative runoff from 65.7 to 15.3 mm and sediment occurance from 0.44 to 0.16 kg m−2 on slopes. Consequently, earthworm activities decreased runoff-associated nutrients (decreased NH4+-N from 19.5 to 2.8 mg m−2, NO3–-N from 108.2 to 26.2 mg m−2, and SP from 2.2 to 0.1 mg m−2) loss by 75.8–96.2%, and sediment-bound nutrient (decreased OC from 2.4 to 0.8 g m−2, TN from 0.3 to 0.1 g m−2, TP from 0.3 to 0.1 g m−2) loss by 63.8–68.5%. Hierarchical partitioning and variation partitioning analyses showed that runoff and sediment yields and their interaction with the soil physical characteristics were the dominant pathways via which earthworms regulated nutrient loss during rainfall events. This study highlights the importance of soil fauna in regulating erosion and nutrient loss in the Loess Plateau, and indicates that these factors should be considered in future water and soil conservation management.

Variations of soil properties and soil surface loss after fire in rotational shifting cultivation in Northern Thailand

Since fire is still necessary for rotational shifting cultivation (RSC), the vertical distribution and slope effect on soil properties and soil surface loss after a fire remain unclear. To address these research gaps, the study aims to achieve the following objectives: 1) investigating post-fire soil properties and soil surface loss in RSC, and 2) assessing the vertical distribution and slope effect on soil properties and soil surface loss in RSC. Soil samples were collected from two stages of RSC: 6 years (RSC-6Y) and 12 years (RSC-12Y), located in Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand. A continuous 15-year left fallow field (CF-15Y) was used as the reference site. Soil samples were collected from the upper, middle, and lower slopes at depths of 0–5, 5–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm at five different time points: before burning, 5 min, 3 months, 6 months, and 9 months post-fire. The results indicated that older fallow fields had a tendency to accumulate more soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil organic nitrogen (STN). The color of the ash was altered by the fire, resulting in dark reddish-brown ash with higher levels of pH, organic matter (OM), electrical conductivity, total nitrogen, and soil nutrients when compared to gray and white ashes. The combustion of OM during the fire was found to release soil nutrients, which could explain the increase after burning. SOC stock increased at deeper layers (5–10 cm) with higher values than pre-burning levels, especially at lower slope positions, while STN stock decreased at the surface soil post-fire but increased in deeper layers at all slope positions. The average soil surface loss ranged from 1.6 to 3.1 cm, with the highest loss observed 9 months after the fire (during the rainy season) at the upper slope. In terms of the impact of slope on soil properties following the fire event, our study indicated a significant correlation between lower slopes and variables including SOC, STN, electrical conductivity, nitrate–nitrogen (NO3-N), ammonium nitrogen (NH4-N), exchangeable calcium, and exchangeable magnesium. Further study is required to investigate and develop appropriate post-fire management strategies to effectively reduce nutrient loss and minimize soil surface erosion.

Stocktake study of current fertilisation recommendations across Europe and discussion towards a more harmonised approach

AbstractThe European Commission has set targets for a reduction in nutrient losses by at least 50% and a reduction in fertiliser use by at least 20% by 2030 while ensuring no deterioration in soil fertility. Within the mandate of the European Joint Programme EJP Soil ‘Towards climate‐smart sustainable management of agricultural soils’, the objective of this study was to assess current fertilisation practices across Europe and discuss the potential for harmonisation of fertilisation methodologies as a strategy to reduce nutrient loss and overall fertiliser use. A stocktake study of current methods of delivering fertilisation advice took place across 23 European countries. The stocktake was in the form of a questionnaire, comprising 46 questions. Information was gathered on a large range of factors, including soil analysis methods, along with soil, crop and climatic factors taken into consideration within fertilisation calculations. The questionnaire was completed by experts, who are involved in compiling fertilisation recommendations within their country. Substantial differences exist in the content, format and delivery of fertilisation guidelines across Europe. The barriers, constraints and potential benefits of a harmonised approach to fertilisation across Europe are discussed. The general consensus from all participating countries was that harmonisation of fertilisation guidelines should be increased, but it was unclear in what format this could be achieved. Shared learning in the delivery and format of fertilisation guidelines and mechanisms to adhere to environmental legislation were viewed as being beneficial. However, it would be very difficult, if not impossible, to harmonise all soil test data and fertilisation methodologies at EU level due to diverse soil types and agro‐ecosystem influences. Nevertheless, increased future collaboration, especially between neighbouring countries within the same environmental zone, was seen as potentially very beneficial. This study is unique in providing current detail on fertilisation practices across European countries in a side‐by‐side comparison. The gathered data can provide a baseline for the development of scientifically based EU policy targets for nutrient loss and soil fertility evaluation.

Reducing nutrient loss in drainage from tomato grown in free-draining substrate in greenhouses using dynamic nutrient management

Substrate-grown crops represent approximately 10% of the cropping area of intensive greenhouse horticulture in southern Spain. The vast majority are free draining, in that they do not collect and recirculate drainage. The substantial nutrient loss in drainage contributes to contamination of water bodies. This study examined the effectiveness of dynamic management approaches to appreciably reduce the large nutrient loss associated with free-draining substrate-grown crops. For three tomato crops, grown in substrate, this study (i) compared management of N, P and K based on the ratio of the concentration in drainage to that in the nutrient solution, to conventional management, (ii) derived uptake concentration values for N, P and K throughout the crop cycle, and (iii) evaluated uptake concentration as a nutrition management tool. Ratio-based management reduced the amounts of N, P and K in drainage, in relation to conventional management by 58–61%, 65–80% and 55–77% respectively. The amounts of applied N, P and K were reduced by 22–28%, 37–43%, and 28–34% compared to conventional management. N, P and K concentrations in the applied nutrient solution slightly below the uptake concentration were associated with much lower concentrations in the drainage solution. In contrast, when the applied nutrient concentration exceeded the uptake concentration this was associated with much higher drainage nutrient concentrations. In conclusion, the two nutritional management strategies examined, ratio-based management, and use of uptake concentrations were both associated with reduced nutrient application and a considerable reduction of nutrient loss in drainage. Fruit production was maintained with the improved nutrient management practices. These strategies offer approaches that can considerably reduce the substantial nutrient loss in drainage associated with free-draining substrate cropping in greenhouse production in southern Europe.

Socioeconomic factors of global food loss

A considerable amount of food produced is lost globally. Food loss indicates not only the amount of edible food that humans do not consume but also the waste of resources used in production and distribution, linked with multifold problems such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and economic loss. While there has been a growing body of literature about magnitudes and technical solutions to reduce food loss, little is known about how different socioeconomic factors are potentially related to the losses. Here we assess the relationships between various relevant socioeconomic factors and food loss within the early stages of the food supply chain (i.e., farm, harvest, storage, and transport parts of it) using the most comprehensive data available. We found that factors such as high gross national income (GNI) per capita and high employment in agriculture are significantly associated with low food loss. It suggests that income might be invested in technology or infrastructure while labor is still vital to reduce food loss, especially in technology-inferior countries. Other important factors related to low food loss are access to electricity in rural areas and export volume index, although the significance and directions vary in each commodity and food supply stage. Our results provide valuable insights into socioeconomic factors around food loss that are beneficial to formulating relevant policy, especially in countries where substantial food losses in the early stages of the food supply chain considerably risk to food security.

Аналіз поточної ситуації та засобів запобігання продовольчих втрат і харчових відходів в Україні

Reducing food losses and waste is of significant importance in a world where the number of people suffering from hunger is increasing, especially after 2014. Food waste leads to ecological issues, including carbon dioxide emissions that exacerbate global warming, and it can also result in social and economic problems. It is also crucial to consider force majeure circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Russian invasion, and the declaration of martial law in Ukraine. Studying and adapting the Ukrainian experience in managing food waste during force majeure situations can be beneficial for other countries in reducing and processing food losses and waste globally. This article is an interim outcome of the UUT17 project (Research Project No. 1877-01/17) "Evaluation of opportunities for prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse of FLW in Ukraine".

Robotics in Food Manufacturing Industry in the Industry 4.0 Era

Robotics is used in food manufacturing in multiple processes. Prominent existing applications are: preparation of soil, seeding, water sprinklers, harvest controlling, cutting the harvests, food extractions, processing, packaging, loading/unloading, food warehouse operations, and food retail operations. Robots enhancements in Industry 4.0 framework have enabled cognitive and collaboration capabilities related to dynamics, kinematics, self-diagnostics, and self-control. Robots can identify and change their robotic hands as per process requirement. Robotics in food manufacturing is used to improve food quality and hygiene, increasing quality and its consistency, improving process performance, improving production rate and productivity, production reconfigurability, improving supply chain resilience and responsiveness, improving food traceability, reducing food loss and wastage, and improving workplace safety. Industry 4.0 allows robotic cyber physical systems (RCPS), HMI interfacing with robots through augmented reality thus ensuring remote real time precision monitoring and control of field robots. Robots with attached cameras with machine learning for image visualization analytics can ensure quality assurance and control of food products during all the stages of the food manufacturing logistics. The key drivers for adopting robotics in food manufacturing are cloud manufacturing, Internet of Things (attached with robotic controller cards), virtual reality simulations, augmented reality for HMI controls, additive manufacturing in food processing, integration of Industry 4.0 systems (IoT with blockchains, edge computing, big data analytics, and machine learning), and autonomous automation software. Robotics in food manufacturing using Industry 4.0 capabilities is a positive change. However, there are ethical and financial challenges. Increased usage of robotics can affect employment of food harvesting and manufacturing workers in developed as well as developing economies. Further, economics of using robotics in food manufacturing is not yet justified in developing nations given the high initial costs and prolonged time to break even. Overall, robotics in food manufacturing using Industry 4.0 has many technical and production advantages but ethical and financial viability is an ongoing research domain.

Simulating the effect of perennialized cropping systems on nitrate-N losses using the SWAT model

Several newly released crop varieties, including the perennial intermediate wheatgrass (grain marketed as Kernza®), and the winter hardy oilseed crop camelina, have been developed to provide both economic return for farmers and reduced nutrient losses from agricultural fields. Though studies have indicated that these crops could reduce nitrate-nitrogen (N) leaching, little research has been done to determine their effectiveness in reducing nitrate-N loading to surface waters at a watershed scale, or in comparing their performance to more traditional perennial crops, such as alfalfa. In this study, nitrate-N losses were predicted using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for the Rogers Creek watershed located in south-central Minnesota, USA. Predicted looses of nitrate-N under three perennialized cropping systems were compared to losses given current cropping practices in a corn (Zea mays L.)-soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) rotation. The perennialized systems included three separate crop rotations: intermediate wheatgrass (IWG) in rotation with soybean, alfalfa in rotation with corn, and winter camelina in rotation with soybean and winter rye. Model simulation of these rotations required creation of new crop files for IWG and winter camelina within SWAT. These new crop files were validated using measured yield, biomass, and nitrate-N data. Model results show that the IWG and alfalfa rotations were particularly effective at reducing nutrient and sediment losses from agricultural areas in the watershed, but smaller reductions were also achieved with the winter camelina rotation. From model predictions, achieving regional water-quality goals of a 30% reduction in nitrate-N load from fields in the watershed required converting approximately 25, 34, or 57% of current corn-soybean area to the alfalfa, IWG, or camelina rotations, respectively. Results of this study indicate that adoption of these crops could achieve regional water quality goals.

An Evaluation of the Alignment of Surplus Food Recovery and Redistribution Technologies with the Circular Economy

In Qatar, food security is a top research priority. The National Food Security Strategy (2018–2023) and the Qatar National Vision 2030 show evidence of policy support regarding food security. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (S.D.G.) 12.3 frames the basis of food waste reduction efforts. Our study aims to provide basic information for innovative mobile application development that addressed food insecurity and waste in Qatar. Furthermore, we discuss how such a technology and the proposed features align with the circular economy concept. The circular economy aims to prolong the useful life of materials and products to maximize resource value and reduce waste. In addition, we highlight the main potential benefits that various stakeholders in the Qatar economy could derive from the innovative surplus food recovery mobile application. The scope of this work is necessary given the diverse nature of the stakeholders involved in the surplus food recovery and redistribution industry. The innovation demonstrated significant solutions to many problems, and using them in the food sector could provide optimal solutions to manage/reduce food surplus waste and loss. The suggested platform differs from the existing food services application, as it closes the food circle and achieves the sustainable goals for a better environment and society for future generations. We conclude with suggestions concerning how public–private collaboration could help recover surplus food and reduce food loss.

A Brief Review and Its Incorporation with Bibliometric Analysis of Phase Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage

Reduction of Food Losses and Wastes (FLW) through the use of cold chain is one strategy applied in accelerating the SDGs goals of zero hunger. The application of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) based on PCM (Phase Change Material) is considered as one of best efforts for the simultaneous reduction of food losses and wastes, reduction of energy consumption as well as preserve the right temperature for food product. This paper presents the review of phase change material for thermal energy purposes and its bibliometric analysis. Bibliometric analysis on term of cold chain logistics show that there is correlation between cold chain and terms of optimization, vehicle routing, carbon emission, refrigeration, and phase change materials. The definition of TES and PCM, as well as the advantages of TES based on latent material are described in this paper. PCMs is classified into solid-solid, solid-liquid, solid-gas and liquid-gas based on its phase. The potential generation of gas and larger volume on solid-gas and liquid-gas PCMs limits the application of those two types of PCMs. PCMs is also classified according to the phase change temperature in which low, medium and high temperature PCMs. Organic, inorganic and composite based PCMs are the classification of PCMs based on the chemical composition. Among the types of PCMs, this paper present a deep review of paraffin based organic PCMs. The appearance of term of thermal conductivity in bibliometric analysis on term of organic phase change materials is due to organic PCMs commonly have low thermal conductivity

Blockchain Application for Traceability and Olive Oil Production in Brazil

Goal: analyze the use of blockchain as a solution to improve the traceability of olive oil production in Brazil.
 
 Theoretical Reference: The technology blockchain has the potential to store data immutably, eliminating the need for third-party verification. In the food industry, this technology can reduce food losses, control temperature during transport and increase the transparency of food-related processes.
 
 Method: The first part is a bibliographical study that aims to identify the main applications of the technology blockchain in food traceability, with a specific focus on olive oil production, composing the mapping of the production chain.
 
 Results: These results are expected to provide a solid basis for understanding the use of the blockchain in the traceability of olive oil production of olive.
 
 Considerations: In the meantime, it is intended to demonstrate the effectiveness and potential benefits of the traceability system, mainly due to the existence of widespread fraud in the olive oil sector in Brazil, suggesting that the use of blockchain technology may be a promising approach to deal with this problem and protect consumers' interests.

Food loss and waste in community-supported agriculture in the region of Leipzig, Germany

ABSTRACTCommunity-supported agriculture (CSA) has the potential to reduce food loss and waste (FLW) due to a direct connection between consumers and producers, lower standards regarding product aesthetics and consumer-related values. Accordingly, CSA could compensate for possible yield gaps compared to conventional agriculture. Here, FLW and yields were assessed for one year in four CSA initiatives in the area of Leipzig, Germany, and compared to reference data. The results show that FLW during production, distribution and consumption were on average 22–70% lower compared to reference data. On average, due to lower FLW, the CSA initiatives could compensate for yield gaps of 32%, which reflects yield gaps typically observed between organic and conventional agriculture. Actual yield gaps in CSA might be lower, as agroecological approaches to increase productivity are widely adopted. The co-evaluation of the results with CSA gardeners showed that FLW could be further reduced in all stages. Reducing FLW was mentioned as an important sustainability goal of the investigated CSA initiatives, yet they also indicated a focus on biodiversity, education, food quality or the reduction of fossil fuels. This pilot study indicates that CSA can contribute to the transition towards sustainable and resilient food systems.

Re-Imagining the Cooling Systems for Markets in Developing Countries: A Conceptual Analysis of a Footstep Powered Cooler

Preserving perishable food items like fruits and vegetables in local markets of developing countries is a significant challenge due to the lack of affordable and sustainable cooling solutions, resulting in high food loss, economic burden, and environmental waste. This paper presents a conceptual analysis of a footstep-powered cooler (FPC) system that harnesses the energy generated from footstep movement to power refrigeration systems. The study developed a Minimal Viable Product (MVP) consisting of a piezoelectric plate connected to a voltage doubler circuit to measure the energy generated per step. Results showed that a single footstep on a 0.15 x 0.15 m tile with four piezoelectric plates connected in series generated 0.8 J of energy. However, when extrapolated to the scale of a market, the energy generated from footsteps fell significantly short of the energy requirements for refrigeration. The study suggests optimizing tile placement, exploring other piezoelectric materials, and improving energy extraction efficiency through circuit modifications as potential strategies to enhance energy output to meet the required energy demands. While footstep-generated energy alone may not be sufficient, it represents a promising and sustainable approach to preserving perishable food in local markets, reducing food loss, and improving overall efficiency in the food supply chain.

The cost of inadequate postharvest management of pulse grain: Farmer losses due to handling and storage practices in Uganda

BackgroundInvesting in postharvest technologies is one way of reducing food losses with the aim of achieving food security, but it is often overlooked. In this study, we assessed the losses and costs associated with the harvest and postharvest practices used by smallholder bean farmers in Uganda. We also estimated the grain Moisture Content (MC) associated with traditional storage practices.ResultsHarvest and postharvest handling practices result in a loss of about 22% of the crop harvest. The cost associated with this loss is 17% of the output value. In addition, the common storage practices used by farmers are unable to maintain the required grain MC of ≤ 13%. As even a slight change in grain MC can significantly impact storage duration, we found that 74% of farmers fail to meet the required MC, resulting in a loss of anticipated price premiums over an average storage duration of 80 days. Our econometric estimates suggest that storing grain in bags placed above the floor surface could reduce MC by an additional 1.5%.ConclusionsOur predictions indicate that farmers who use traditional practices should store bean grains for less than 60 days, or they should adopt better storage practices to increase shelf life and ensure food safety. If more farmers had placed their grain above the floor surface, 48% rather than 26% would have met the required MC at 90 days. It is worth noting that poor postharvest handling has significant economic implications and can lead to food safety concerns due to quality failures in the grain. To address these issues, there is a need to scale up interventions that increase farmer access to postharvest technologies.

Integrating the latest biological advances in the key steps of a food packaging life cycle.

This literature review provides a focus on the potential of integrating the latest scientific and technological advances in the biological field to improve the status of the key steps of a food packaging life cycle: production, usage, post-usage, and long-term fate. A case study of such multi-biological food packaging is demonstrated based on the use of PHAs (polyhydroxyalkanoates) polymer, a microbiologically produced polymer from non-food renewable resources, activated by the use of bioactive components to enhance its usage benefits by reducing food loss and waste, displaying potential for reusability, compostability as post-usage, and finally, being ultimately biodegradable in most common natural conditions to considerably reduce the negative impact that persistent plastics have on the environment. We discuss how designing safe and efficient multi "bio" food packaging implies finding a compromise between sometimes contradictory functional properties. For example, active antimicrobials help preserve food but can hamper the ultimate biodegradation rate of the polymer. This review presents such antagonisms as well as techniques (e.g., coatings, nanoencapsulation) and tools (e.g., release kinetic) that can help design optimized, safe, and efficient active food packaging.

Reducing the time-dependent climate impact of intensive agriculture with strategically positioned short rotation coppice willow

In this study the implementation of a short rotation coppice willow system, planted as a riparian buffer in an intensive agricultural setting, to intercept and reduce nutrient losses, was investigated. The aim of the work was to assess how such a system could reduce the overall climate impact of an intensive agricultural setting. A life cycle assessment was carried out for a combined Irish dairy farm and willow buffer system considering the impact category, climate impact. The climate impact was considering using the time-dependent climate impact metric, with the results given in terms of the impact on the global surface temperature. The results were compared to an Irish dairy farm in which no willow was planted. Such a system has not previously been investigated in this way and this was the first time-dependent climate impact assessment of a willow plantation planted on pastureland. Geographic information systems software, was used to map areas particularly susceptible to agricultural run-off and suitable for willow planting, using the land bank of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute research farm in Hillsborough, Northern Ireland, for the case study. The harvested willow was assumed to be combusted in a combined heat and power plant. By implementing the willow system the time-dependent climate impact of an Irish dairy farm could be reduced by 8% with only 3.7% of the land used for willow cultivation over a 101-year study period. The results also found an immediate reduction in climate impact following the implementation of the willow system. Total GHG emissions were reduced by 131 Mg CO2eq ha−1 over the study timeframe. The results can be more broadly applied to other agricultural sectors, such as arable farming where the climate impact savings of the willow system could be even higher.