Sustainable Agricultural Techniques Research Articles

From Clandestine to Certified: Shaping a Sustainable and Equitable Future for Bacanora Production in Sonora

The international popularity of traditional agave spirits, like bacanora, is growing. However, the Sonoran Council’s inaction in ensuring equity among producers and sustainable agriculture practices raises concerns about the product’s future. While bacanora production has transitioned from being outlawed in Mexico to being protected under a Denomination of Origin (DO), social and environmental issues persist due to the Council’s lack of proactive measures. Ensuring sustainable bacanora production is crucial for cultural and economic longevity within the industry. Herein, we recommend that the Sonoran Council implement a funded initiative to reduce small-scale producers' barriers: difficulties in qualifying for certification, overharvesting, and financial strife among small-scale producers. Additionally, policies should be in place to formally expand conservation efforts that support sustainable agricultural techniques. These recommendations seek to ensure the longevity of the bacanora industry and support the traditional knowledge that has persisted throughout history.

Enhancing physio-biochemical characteristics in okra genotypes through seed priming with biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized from halophytic plant extracts

Poor seedling germination and growth can result in large financial losses for farmers, thus, there is an urgent need for sustainable agricultural techniques to enhance seed germination and early growth. As an outcome, sustainable agriculture-which emphasizes the smart and effective utilization of resources-has gained popularity worldwide. At numerous levels, the field of nanotechnology is capable of significant benefit in achieving sustainable agricultural practices. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have been shown to have biostimulatory properties and serve as effective solutions for addressing environmental and biotic stressors. The purpose of this study, investigating Salvadora persica halophytic leaf extract -synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (S-ZnONPs) as nano-priming agents to ensure okra seeds germinated under stress-free conditions. From an application perspective, we examined the effect of seed priming with varying concentrations of S-ZnO NPs (0, 20 and 40 ppm) for 18 and 24 h of soaking. Results indicated that the germination rate of hybrid variety improved with 20 ppm at 18 h, increasing by 58.22%, while mean germination time reduced by 24.62%. An enhancement trend was observed in the shoot, root length, shoot and root fresh weight, shoot and root dry weight of hybrid variety at 20ppm with 18 h priming by 34.2, 84.3, 80.2, 47.4, 50.3, and 36.2%, respectively. However, chlorophyll pigments chl a, chl b, and carotenoids was significantly raised in desi variety by 42.4, 79.31, and 142.29% with 20 ppm at 18 h priming. Hydrogen per oxide decreased up to 87.8% with 40 ppm at 24 h in hybrid variety, while, in desi variety H2O2 was reduced 88.3% with 20 ppm at 24 h. Non enzymatic antioxidant activities such as ascorbic acid, was highly increased 130.6% in hybrid at 24 h priming with 20 ppm dose. Flavonoids raised in same variety by 166.1% with 20 ppm at 18 h. Proline content was increased by 144.5% with 40ppm at 18 h. Moreover, Antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and catalase were significantly increased in both varieties with both levels of S-ZnO NPs and priming time. This cost-effective and environmentally safe technique to produce nanoparticles of different halophytic plants can maximize resource utilization, supporting sustainable agriculture by minimizing adverse environmental effects without compromising efficiency.

Impact of seed priming on the germination and initial seedling growth of two maize hybrids under alkaline stress

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a vital crop, but its productivity is hindered by soil alkalinity, characterised by high pH levels that reduce nutrient availability. This study explores the potential of calcium carbonate seed priming to enhance the germination and early growth of two maize hybrids, CO-6 and VGI (H) M-2, under alkaline conditions. The experiment involved priming seeds with a calcium carbonate solution and testing them in various alkalinity levels (0, 2, 4, 8, and 10%). Results showed that priming significantly improved shoot growth and root length in both hybrids CO-6 and VGI H (M)-2 exhibited varying levels of tolerance to alkalinity, with primed seeds generally outperforming unprimed seeds in shoot growth and root length. This study concludes that calcium carbonate priming can enhance maize tolerance to alkaline soils, improving overall plant health. Further field studies and biochemical tests are recommended to validate these findings and optimise maize cultivation in alkaline environments. This study offers a workable solution to the problems caused by soil alkalinity in maize cultivation, which advances sustainable agricultural techniques.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Specialization of Maize Cultivation

Objective: To identify current scientific information on maize (Zea mays L.) in relation to the challenges and opportunities associated with the specialization of this crop. Design/methodology/approach: A bibliographic search was conducted in high-impact journals focusing on the difficulties and opportunities in maize cultivation. Results: Several key challenges in maize cultivation were identified, including the impact of climate change, limited access to technologies for small and medium producers, variability in grain price, and the availability of improved seed to increase yields in their reproductive zones. One potential solution involves access to improved short-cycle varieties with tolerance to adverse factors (both biotic and abiotic), combined with sustainable agricultural techniques such as conservation agriculture. Limitations on study/implications: Despite existing research on maize cultivation, its composition, nutritional contribution and economic importance, the profitability of this crop is affected by factors such as price variation, climate change, and the incidence of pests and diseases. Therefore, further research is needed to identify varieties with more competitive markets to enhance sustainability. Findings/conclusions: Maize is a globally important crop with industrial applications and uses for both human and livestock consumption. The increasing demand underscores the need to improve its performance and profitability. A strategy to increase production involves promoting diversification through the specialization of varieties with more competitive markets and the adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques.

Assessing the Impact of Sustainable Agriculture Practices on Biodiversity Conservation

An important component in attaining environmental resilience and sustainability is the effect of sustainable agricultural practices on biodiversity conservation. Using examples from a variety of environments, this article assesses how well alternative sustainable agriculture approaches encourage biodiversity conservation. Improving environmental health, reducing ecological footprint, and ensuring long-term productivity are all goals of sustainable agriculture. organic farming, integrated pest management, conservation tillage, and agroforestry are all examples of sustainable agricultural methods. We look at how these activities affect soil organisms, plant variety, and wildlife habitats, among other layers of biodiversity. These methods aid in the protection and improvement of biodiversity by analysing current empirical research and case studies from a variety of geographical areas. Results show that sustainable agricultural techniques can lessen environmental stresses, increase species variety, and improve habitat quality, all of which are important for biodiversity conservation. By reducing chemical inputs and providing a variety of ecological niches, systems like agroforestry and organic farming are able to support a wide variety of plant and animal species. Soil health is improved and habitat disruption is reduced through integrated pest control and conservation tillage, both of which contribute to an ecosystem that is more resilient.

Exploring Sustainable Agricultural Techniques for Enhanced Pineapple Production in the Municipality of Bataraza, Palawan

Exploring Sustainable Agricultural Techniques for Enhanced Pineapple Production in the Municipality of Bataraza, Palawan

Enhancing Biology Education through Hydroponics: A Practical Approach in High School Classes

Hydroponics, the practice of growing plants without soil, presents an engaging method for teaching biology. By visually demonstrating essential plant biology concepts and sustainable agricultural techniques, hydroponics provides students with an interactive learning experience. This study explores the integration of hydroponics into high school biology curricula, assessing its influence on student engagement, understanding of plant science, and practical skills. The findings reveal that students show greater curiosity and enthusiasm for biology through exposure to hydroponics, understand complex biological processes more effectively, and develop critical scientific inquiry skills through hands-on experimentation. However, challenges include the initial investment required for implementation, the need for consistent care and monitoring, and the necessity for specialized training for educators to effectively incorporate hydroponics into their lessons. While hydroponics offers significant potential, further research is needed to explore its scalability across different educational settings. Refining implementation strategies will make hydroponics a more accessible and valuable tool for high school biology classes.

Single Stage Autonomous Solar Water Pumping System Using PMSM Drive

Water supply technology has advanced significantly with the development of autonomous solar water pumping devices. These solar-powered systems offer a dependable and sustainable way to pump water in remote and off-grid areas. They are the perfect solution for solving problems with water delivery in places with restricted access to power because of their capacity to function independently and without the requirement for grid electricity. Autonomous solar water pumping systems present a viable and creative approach to a sustainable water supply at a time when demand for renewable energy solutions is only expected to increase. Sustainable and effective agricultural techniques have advanced significantly with the introduction of autonomous solar water pumping equipment. These solar-powered devices provide an economical and environmentally responsible way to address the problems of declining water supplies and growing energy expenses. Adoption of autonomous solar water pumping devices will be essential to maintaining the productivity and long-term sustainability of our world's food supply as the agricultural sector develops.

Recent advancements in pesticide mitigation using engineered Escherichia coli strains

Pesticides have considerably increased agricultural output, but their overuse presents serious threats to human health, food safety, and the environment. Alarmingly, only around 1% of pesticides used reach their intended pests, with the remainder polluting soil, water, and air. This causes broad environmental contamination and negative consequences on non-target animals, including people. Top pesticide-consuming countries, including China, the United States, and Brazil, confront considerable issues due to residual pesticide buildup. Recent biotechnology developments provide intriguing pesticide mitigation strategies. Engineered Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains have developed as very efficient bioremediation agents. These genetically engineered microbes are intended to convert hazardous chemicals into harmless metabolites. E. coli strains are tailored for increased expression of pesticide-degrading genes using modern genetic and metabolic engineering, dramatically enhancing their ability to break down hazardous chemicals. Studies have shown that modified E. coli may degrade persistent pesticides such as Paraoxon and p-nitrophenol (PNP), turning them to harmless molecules. These bacteria may reach great densities, making them ideal for large-scale detoxifying operations. Furthermore, recombinant DNA technology enables the development of E. coli strains with several copies of degradation genes, which improves their bioremediation capacities. Despite these advances, obstacles persist, including biosafety issues and the need for regulatory supervision. Ongoing research is critical for addressing these concerns and developing safer, more sustainable agriculture techniques. Engineered E. coli strains represent a substantial advancement in pesticide mitigation, providing a feasible approach for reducing environmental pollution and protecting human health.

The Applicability of the Solar Powered Aquaponics Mobile Unit at Sharjah Campus for Sustainable Perspective of Food Security

By recognizing the limitations of conventional farming methods in meeting the escalating global population and the resulting increased demand for food, this study emphasizes the crucial need for sustainable agriculture techniques. This work focuses on establishing a solar-powered aquaponics system as a sustainable, cost-effective, and ecologically responsible approach to ensure food security in the UAE. This paper describes the implemented aquaponics prototype within the mobile learning unit at the Sharjah Campus of the Higher College of Technology by integrating fish and plant cultivation in a closed-loop system to prioritize water conservation and eliminate reliance on soil, align with United Nations sustainable development goals and promoting sustainable farming practices for robust food production in the UAE. The solar energy system was employed for 6 photovoltaic modules for LED lights and 13 photovoltaic modules for the pumping system, with a total installation area of 50 m2. It is found that the power requirements are comparatively lower than the vertical setup, which requires 6 photovoltaic modules for the LED and 14 photovoltaic modules for the pumping system. This paper assesses the functional parameters, including electricity consumption by solar panels and water pump energy usage. Furthermore, investigates the impact of fish and plant interactions on water quality and nitrification efficiency, addressing deficiencies in traditional farming and aquaculture. Monthly evaluations reveal favorable conditions, with pH levels of 6.4-7.2, temperatures between 31.8°C and 34.7°C, and ammonia levels at 1 mg.L-1. Aquatic life exhibits an 83% survival rate and a specific growth rate of 3.92% daily.

Agriculture: A Pathway to Create a Sustainable Economy

Agriculture has emerged as a critical sector for constructing a long-term economy that balances economic growth, social well-being, and environmental stewardship. This report examines the relationship between sustainable agricultural practices, economic development, and environmental protection in order to create a sustainable economy through agriculture. It emphasizes the critical significance of sustainable agriculture in generating economic prosperity. It explores how organic farming, agroecology, and precision agriculture improve production, maximize resource usage, and minimize input costs. These approaches not only promote agricultural output but also help to improve food security, farmer income, and rural livelihoods. It explains how sustainable agricultural techniques safeguard natural resources, soil fertility, water quality, and biodiversity. Sustainable agriculture guarantees long-term sustainability of agricultural systems by protecting the environment, mitigating the effects of climate change, and lowering the risk of environmental damage. It explores how sustainable agriculture fosters entrepreneurship, value chain development, and market connections, resulting in job creation, income production, and rural economic regeneration. It emphasizes the significance of supportive policies, financial access, and market-oriented initiatives in unlocking the economic potential of sustainable agriculture.
 
 Keywords: Sustainable Agriculture, Biodiversity, Value chain development, Agricultural ecology

How Does Sustainable Management Practices Affect Weed Flora and Tuber Yield of Potato Crop in Mediterranean Environment?

AbstractIntensive potato cultivation affects weed species composition by selecting dominant and competitive weeds that represent a constraint of potato productivity. Field experiments were conducted during 2015 and 2016 growing seasons to examine the effects of soil tillage (plowing (PL), spading (SM), sub soiling (SS)) and fertilizer source (mineral (Min) and organic (Org)) on potato yield and weed community under Mediterranean environment. A randomized complete block design with three replications was adopted. Weed density and biomass were measured at the potato harvesting time. Weed density was highest in SS, intermediate in SM, and lowest in PL (43.8, 40.3, and 28.8 plants m−2). Similar trend was observed in weed biomass. Weed density and biomass were higher in Org than Min (42.1 vs. 36.4 plants m−2 and 129.6 vs. 117.9 g m−2, respectively). Perennial, monocot, and dicot weed species were the most abundant in subsoiling (13.1, 9.3 and 34.5 plants m−2). Density of perennial and dicot species were higher in Org than Min. Monocots were mostly linked with Min, while dicots were mainly associated with Org. Although tuber yield was higher in PL and Min (481.9 and 627.5 g m−2 of DM), it was affected by growing season and might be associated to SM and Org. Although the study shows that increased weed biodiversity in the system, achieved with more sustainable practices, proves to be an obstacle to potato production, the adoption of spading machine applied in combination with mineral and organic fertilizers could be a valid alternative to plowing. Further studies are required to develop sustainable agricultural techniques able to improve the competitive capacity of crops and reduce the selection of dominant weed species.

Sustainable agriculture and food sovereignty in Haiti: sharing knowledge and shaping understanding of food systems at the University of Fondwa

The Association of Peasants of Fondwa (APF), a grassroots organization led by a visionary Haitian Spiritan priest, established the private nonprofit University of Fondwa (UNIF) in Haiti in 2004. The University aims to fill a gap in educational opportunities for rural youth and to develop community leaders able to steward food security, sustainable farm animal husbandry, and small business development. Since the institution’s foundation, University faculty members have explored low-input sustainable agriculture techniques, which were inspired by strategies shared earlier by Cuban agronomists and adapted to the Fondwa region’s mountainous terrain. While the University has faced and continues to confront many challenges related to its sustainability as an institution, this article describes the processes by which its faculty and students have conducted diagnoses of soils and crop choices, the innovations they have developed and introduced to improve harvest productivity in rural Haiti and, especially, the ways and means by which they have sought to share such (re)thinking of traditional practices with local farmers. We argue that the University of Fondwa faculty’s close collaboration with local farmers and the agricultural techniques they have refined thereby have not only improved food security for the families involved but have also contributed to the creation of social capital in the countryside and enabled participating Haitian farmers to imagine a path toward food sovereignty. In addition, by educating farmers and providing them tools to improve their food production, the University has worked to close the deep inequality gap that exists between urban and rural Haiti.

Women Farmer's Perspectives on Climate Change and Intention to Adopt Sustainable Agriculture

Purpose: This study highlights the significance of sustainable agriculture and delves into the views of women farmers on climate change and their aspirations to adopt sustainable farming practices. Theoretical framework: The opportunity comes in creating fresh methods, abilities, and interventions that foster innovation. The challenge is figuring out ways to mitigate its effects and search for alternatives. Women farmers in particular need creative behaviour and decision-making power to adapt to climate change since they face resource, cultural, societal, and personal constraints. Design/methodology/approach: To better understand how farmers think about climate change, sustainable agriculture, and related topics, we conducted structured, open-ended interviews with them. Twenty-six female farmers in the Himalayan state of Sikkim were chosen using convenience sampling. Qualitative data analysis tools were used to analyse the interview data. A web-based tool was used for sentiment analysis, which also contributed to identifying the themes. Findings: Positive sentiments were identified in the use of organic farming for sustainable agriculture. Most respondents believed that government support is required for large-scale use of organic farming. The respondents also acknowledged the positive effects of vermicomposting. The analysis showed that vermicomposting provides good health and growth to plants and crops. Resilient crop selection was identified as a method that assists in standing against weather fluctuations. Research, Practical & Social Implications: Crop selection based on seasons is vital for good yields. The thematic analysis also presented a positive response toward applying crop rotation, intercropping, and companion cropping. Compared to women with lower decision-making and inventive skills, women with these traits embraced more sustainable agricultural practises. Originality/Value: Giving women in agriculture greater autonomy will thereby enhance the adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques, so enhancing food security and reducing climate change. This outcome will help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals of gender equality and climate action set by the United Nations.

Revitalize Traditional Agriculture: Chinese Consumer Perception and Preference of “Modern” Organic and Sustainable Traditional Rice Products

Many smallholder farmers in developing countries have used sustainable traditional agricultural techniques to ensure food safety and sustainability over the centuries. However, the value of sustainable traditional agricultural products, especially as an inexpensive substitution for “modern” organic products in developing countries, is rarely studied. Using the contingent valuation method, we compared Chinese consumers’ perceptions of and preferences for sustainable traditional agricultural products and “modern” organic products. Our results show that sustainable traditional agriculture can signal environment-friendly practices and food safety, and consumer willingness to pay for sustainable traditional agricultural products is higher than those of “modern” organic products. Considering the high demand for sustainable traditional agricultural products, revitalizing sustainable traditional agriculture may be a good way to balance sustainability and feasibility in developing countries.

Nitrate contamination of different organic and non-organic vegetable varieties: A case study in Morocco

Nitrates are chemical substances naturally present in the environment (plants, soil, water) and are involved in the natural nitrogen cycle. They represent the most stable oxidation state and are essential nutrients for plant growth. The exposure and ingestion of nitrates by the population are mainly through the consumption of vegetables and occasionally through water intake. The objective of this study is to determine the nitrate content of various varieties of vegetables from industrial agriculture consumed by the population in three cities in northern Morocco's Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region, as well as to demonstrate the health risk of consuming a high concentration of nitrate. The results determine the nitrate content of 77 vegetable samples harvested in Morocco’s Rabat-Salé-Kenitra region. The results showed that nitrate concentrations in vegetables varied depending on different areas in the city and whether the sample was organic or non-organic. The results of our study vary from 31.4 mg/kg (red onion) to 7860 mg/kg (beetroot) in the different vegetable varieties studied. It is recommended that this level be monitored on a regular basis and that the population be made aware of the recommended daily consumption of nitrates (0.84 mg-N/kg/d or 3.7 mg NO3-/kg/d) in the region to prevent excessive exposure to these potentially toxic compounds. In addition, it is advised to promote sustainable agriculture techniques aimed at lowering overall nitrate levels in the food supply and boosting the health and sustainability of the area's food system

FACTORS THAT INDUCE THE RECOVERY OF DEGRADED PASTURES BY FARMERS OF THE RIO DAS CONTAS HYDROGRAPHIC BASIN

The intensification of agricultural production in the future must necessarily happen on a sustainable basis. Thus, the present study aimed to analyze the role of education and climate perception for the pro-environmental behavior of farmers with a focus on the recovery of degraded pastures. The willingness to adopt agricultural techniques that mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions was considered as a factor of pro-environmental behavior. For the analysis, a case study was carried out with farmers whose properties are located in the river basin of Rio das Contas, Bahia. Methodologically, the work was divided into three main stages: data collection; exploratory analysis of responses regarding the willingness to adopt sustainable production techniques, a proxy used to represent pro-environmental behavior; and the analysis of a probability model (Probit). The main factors responsible for this perception of climate change identified in the study were access to formal education and technical assistance. The research showed that these two variables can promote the recovery of degraded areas, as they are able to assist in decision making in the face of climate change scenarios. It was concluded that technical assistance and schooling make farmers more willing to undertake more sustainable agricultural techniques.

Promoting Urban Farming for Creating Sustainable Cities in Nepal

This paper responds to the research question, “can urban farming in Nepal help create sustainable cities?” Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, urban residents have begun to realize that food transported from long distances is not always reliable. Urban farming can help produce fresh food locally and help urban residents become self-reliant by engaging in healthy eating habits and practicing sustainable agricultural techniques in food-desert areas, while creating a positive impact on the environment through regenerative agricultural methods. In doing so, urban farms can help the growers save on food expenditures and even earn some additional income, while also improving air quality and minimizing the effects of urban heat islands. This practice also helps reduce greenhouse gases through plant carbon use efficiency (CUE), as vegetation carbon dynamics (VCD) can be adjusted while supporting the circular economy. As urban lands command higher prices than agricultural land, urban farming usually happens on residential yards, roofs, balconies, community gardens, and dedicated areas in public parks. Rainwater harvesting and redirecting can help irrigate urban farms, which can be part of rain gardens. The national census of 2021 identified that 66% of Nepal’s population lives in urban areas. However, the World Bank (2018) showed that only 21 of Nepal’s population was projected to live in urban areas in 2021. It is not debatable that the urbanization process in Nepal is on the rise. Thus, urban agriculture can play an important role in supplementing residents’ food needs. Many cities in Nepal have already successfully adapted to urban farming wherein residents grow food on their building sites, balconies, and rooftop, often growing plants in pots, vases, and other types of containers. The UN-Habitat, with the support of the European Union and local agencies, published a rooftop farming training manual (2014), showing the feasibility of urban farming in Nepal. This paper discusses how public-private partnership (PPP) can promote urban agriculture and make the process more effective and attractive to urban-farming households. It also analyzes how a PPP approach also facilitates the use of better technology, advisory support, and use of research extension activities. This paper draws on a literature review, uses remote-sensing imagery data and data from National Census Nepal 2021, and the authors’ professional experiences related to best practices in the areas to analyze the benefits and challenges related to urban farming both in Nepal and Arizona, USA. The paper provides recommendations for Nepali cities to maximize the benefit provided by urban farming. It is expected to be useful to Nepali policymakers, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations which promote sustainability, and organic farming with a sustainable supply chain.

Farmers adoption of some sustainable agricultural techniques in the area of soil protection and maintenance in Gharbia Governorate

Farmers adoption of some sustainable agricultural techniques in the area of soil protection and maintenance in Gharbia Governorate

The Importance of Microorganisms for Sustainable Agriculture-A Review.

In the face of climate change, progressive degradation of the environment, including agricultural land negatively affecting plant growth and development, endangers plant productivity. Seeking efficient and sustainable agricultural techniques to replace agricultural chemicals is one of the most important challenges nowadays. The use of plant growth-promoting microorganisms is among the most promising approaches; however, molecular mechanisms underneath plant-microbe interactions are still poorly understood. In this review, we summarized the knowledge on plant-microbe interactions, highlighting the role of microbial and plant proteins and metabolites in the formation of symbiotic relationships. This review covers rhizosphere and phyllosphere microbiomes, the role of root exudates in plant-microorganism interactions, the functioning of the plant's immune system during the plant-microorganism interactions. We also emphasized the possible role of the stringent response and the evolutionarily conserved mechanism during the established interaction between plants and microorganisms. As a case study, we discussed fungi belonging to the genus Trichoderma. Our review aims to summarize the existing knowledge about plant-microorganism interactions and to highlight molecular pathways that need further investigation.