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24 pages, 1970 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Crop Rotation and Weed Control as Factors in the Sustainable Cultivation of Winter Oilseed Rape

by Arkadiusz Stępień, Katarzyna Wojtkowiak and Ewelina Kolankowska

Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 5065; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17115065 - 31 May 2025

Viewed by 247

Abstract

The competitive ability of weeds against crop plants is determined by the amount of macronutrients taken up from the soil. Macronutrient uptake is influenced by nutrient concentrations in plants and, above all, the amount of weed biomass produced per unit area. The present [...] Read more.

The competitive ability of weeds against crop plants is determined by the amount of macronutrients taken up from the soil. Macronutrient uptake is influenced by nutrient concentrations in plants and, above all, the amount of weed biomass produced per unit area. The present study was conducted as a part of a field experiment with winter oilseed rape, which has been carried out since 1967. Winter oilseed rape has been grown continuously since 1967 in the same field and in a six-field crop rotation. In winter oilseed rape monoculture, weed management was implemented to mitigate soil fatigue. Winter oilseed rape yields were twice as high in crop rotation than in monoculture, and weed biomass was more than three times higher in the continuous cropping system than in crop rotation. Winter oilseed rape yields were higher in crop rotation without a weed control than in monoculture, including monoculture with a weed control. Nitrogen (N) uptake by rape seeds and straw was significantly higher, whereas N uptake by weeds was lower in crop rotation than in monoculture. In all years of this study, N uptake by weed biomass was higher in monoculture than in crop rotation due to higher weed infestation levels in the continuous cropping system, and N uptake was not significantly affected by N content. The weed control induced a greater increase in N uptake by rape seeds and straw in monoculture than in crop rotation. The results indicate that integrating crop rotation with herbicide protection can help increase yields while reducing weeds, which promotes a more sustainable crop production system. The use of crop rotation contributes to a more efficient use of nitrogen by crops, while reducing its uptake by weeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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23 pages, 2982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plant Growth Regulators and Short-Term Irrigation for Berry Maturation Homogeneity and Increased Coffea arabica Bean Quality

by Miroslava Rakočević, Eunice Reis Batista, Fabio Takeshi Matsunaga and Maria Brígida dos Santos Scholz

Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3803; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093803 - 23 Apr 2025

Viewed by 395

Abstract

Gibberellic acid (GA3) may help to synchronize coffee flowering, whilst ethylene (in the form of Ethephon) may assist in advancing coffee berry maturation even when applied in the pre-flowering stage of phenophase. Functional–structural plant modeling (FSPM) can be used to help understand whole-plant [...] Read more.

Gibberellic acid (GA3) may help to synchronize coffee flowering, whilst ethylene (in the form of Ethephon) may assist in advancing coffee berry maturation even when applied in the pre-flowering stage of phenophase. Functional–structural plant modeling (FSPM) can be used to help understand whole-plant responses, such as plant-scale photosynthesis. FSPM has never been used to investigate the response of coffee plants to external plant growth regulator (PGR) applications. We hypothesized that treatment with PGRs at the beginning of berry maturation (BM) during phenophase could (1) influence plant leaf area and plant photosynthesis at the end of BM and (2) assist in the uniformity of the berry maturation of seven-year-old coffee plants. Additionally, we assumed that (3) the distribution of berries over the vertical plant profile could be related to the coffee beans’ chemical quality, and that irrigated plants would have delayed maturation, but a higher yield than non-irrigated (NI) plants. To test these hypotheses, a short sustainable period of irrigation was applied six weeks before harvest. Irrigated plants were treated with GA3 or Ethephon. A combination of field measurements (leaf gas exchanges, berry collection and bean chemical analyses in relation to vertical plant strata) and computer modeling were used. At the beginning or the end of BM, coffee trees were coded using the VPlants modeling platform and reconstructed using CoffePlant3D software to compute the plant leaf area and plant photosynthesis. The greatest number of second-order red berries were found in the upper stratum, S3 (>160 cm), while slightly fewer were found in S2 (80–160 cm) belonging to the third-order axes, and the lowest number was found in S1 (<80 cm). Green berries were more representative in S2, with the greatest number belonging to the third-order axes. The participation of third-order axes in berry yield was up to approximately 37% for red berries and 25% for green berries. The greatest separation between PGRs could be seen in S2, where more berries in the Ethephon-treated plants were found than in the GA3 treated ones, while the dry mass (DM) percentage was higher in GA3 than in the Ethephon treatment. The percentage of DM in fresh mass was 17–28% in the green berries and 28–36% in the red berries. PGRs were important for homogenous berry maturity, especially GA3, which also showed the lowest total chlorogenic acid content. The NI plants showed reduced red and total berry production when compared to irrigated ones, indicating this horticultural measure is important, even during a sustainably reduced six-week period, due to preserved leaf area and plant photosynthesis, and it also increased the lipid and kahweol contents of irrigated plants when compared to NI plants, despite the maturation delay. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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32 pages, 5388 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effect of Long-Term Soil System Use and Diversified Fertilization on the Sustainability of the Soil Fertility—Organic Matter and Selected Trace Elements

by Agnieszka Andrzejewska and Maria Biber

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 2907; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17072907 - 25 Mar 2025

Viewed by 542

Abstract

It has been assumed that the long-term impact of a diversified soil use system (SUS) and the continuous application of manure and/or mineral fertilizers (NPK) affects the sustainability of soil fertility components. This influence is manifested through the content and distribution of nutrients, [...] Read more.

It has been assumed that the long-term impact of a diversified soil use system (SUS) and the continuous application of manure and/or mineral fertilizers (NPK) affects the sustainability of soil fertility components. This influence is manifested through the content and distribution of nutrients, as well as some bioavailable heavy metals in the soil. This hypothesis was verified in 2022 in a long-term field experiment that started in 1957. It consisted of a seven-course crop rotation: potato–spring barley–winter triticale–alfalfa–alfalfa–winter wheat–winter rye and monocultures of these crops plus black fallow. The studies were carried out on three separate fields: black fallow (BF), winter wheat grown in monoculture (WW-MO), and crop rotation (WW-CR). Each of these experimental objects consists of five fertilizer variants (FVs) fertilized in the same way every year: absolute control (AC)—variant without fertilizers for 75 years; farmyard manure—FM; mineral fertilizers—NPK; mixed variant—NPK + FM; mineral fertilizers plus annually applied lime—NPK + L. The second factor was the soil layer: 0.0–0.3 m, 0.3–0.6 m, or 0.6–0.9 m. The obtained results clearly indicate that long-term fertilization with NPK + FM, especially in rotation with legumes, strengthens the eluviation/illuviation processes, decreasing the sustainability of soil fertility. Liming is a factor stabilizing the content and distribution of silt and clay particles in the soil. The key factor determining the content and distribution of micronutrients and heavy metals in the soil was the content of organic carbon (C_org). Its content decreased in the following order: WW-CR (13.2 ± 5.8) ≥ WW-MO (12.3 ± 6.9) > BF (6.6 ± 2.8 g·kg⁻¹). The large variability resulted from a distribution trend with soil depth, which increased as follows: MO ≥ CR > BF. FVs with FM had the highest C_org content. NPK, regardless of the long-term soil use system (SUS), had the lowest content. Among the elements studied, the key one impacting the content of both micronutrients and heavy metals was iron (Fe). The Fe content decreased in the order BL (100%) > WW-MO (90.5%) > WW-CR (85%). The opposite tendency was found for the remaining elements, the content of which was consistent with the content of C_org, which was the highest in CR. The strongest impact of Fe, modified by the SUS, was found for Zn, Pb, and Cd. Despite the differences observed between SUSs, fertilization variants, and soil layers, the content of Fe and Mn was in the medium class, while Zn and Cu were in the high class of availability. The content of Ni was the highest for NPK + FM in WW-CR. The content of Pb was weakly affected by the long-term SUS but showed a strong tendency for accumulation in the topsoil layer. The content of Cd was the highest in BF, where it exceeded the threshold of 0.27 mg·kg⁻¹. The long-term diversified SUS, as the main factor determining the sustainability of soil fertility, makes it possible to indicate the directions of humus accumulation and its distribution in the soil. It turned out to be a key factor, but in cooperation with Fe, it determined the content of micronutrients and bioavailable heavy metals in the soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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18 pages, 432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Revitalising Traditional Cereals in Portugal: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategies for Value Chain Development

by Isabel Dinis, Daniela Santos and Pedro Mendes-Moreira

Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2745; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062745 - 19 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 416

Abstract

Traditional cereals, recognised for their adaptability, high nutritional value, and unique sensory characteristics, have largely been excluded from global food supply chains. Recent shifts in consumption patterns, particularly in urban areas, indicate a growing demand for high-quality bread, creating new opportunities for farmers [...] Read more.

Traditional cereals, recognised for their adaptability, high nutritional value, and unique sensory characteristics, have largely been excluded from global food supply chains. Recent shifts in consumption patterns, particularly in urban areas, indicate a growing demand for high-quality bread, creating new opportunities for farmers interested in sustainable production techniques and traditional varieties. However, challenges such as seed availability, regulatory constraints, marketing strategies, and logistical barriers persist. This study, conducted within the framework of the CERTRA project—Development of Traditional Cereal Value Chains for Sustainable Food in Portugal—aims to enhance the traditional cereal value chain in Portugal by identifying key challenges and opportunities and proposing effective development strategies. The research employs a mixed-method approach, including documentary research, a SWOT analysis based on the scientific literature and stakeholder insights, and a case study methodology examining twelve successful European initiatives. The findings highlight strengths such as seed sovereignty, resilience under low-input farming, and market potential through certification and short food supply chains. However, weaknesses such as lower yields, mechanisation challenges, and seed access restrictions remain critical obstacles. Our analysis suggests that participatory breeding programs, farmer-led seed networks, and hybrid distribution models integrating direct sales, online platforms, and local partnerships can support the revitalisation of traditional cereals. Future research should focus on consumer preferences, branding strategies, and technological innovations that enhance processing efficiency while preserving the ecological and cultural value of traditional varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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14 pages, 561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cashew Gum (Anacardium occidentale) Hydrogel for Sustainable Irrigation of Cactus Pear: Effects on Growth, Chemical Composition, and Mineral Content

by Dhiéssica Barros, Ricardo Edvan, João Paulo Pessoa, Romilda Nascimento, Luan Felipe Camboim, Shirlenne Silva, José Morais Pereira Filho, Heldeney Sousa, Edson Cavalcanti Silva-Filho, Mozart Fonseca and Leilson Bezerra

Sustainability 2025, 17(2), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020501 - 10 Jan 2025

Viewed by 1082

Abstract

Hydrogels are substances designed to retain significant quantities of water and slowly release it to support plant growth. This study produced and evaluated the use of a test hydrogel (TH), a natural polymer derived from cashew gum (Anacardium occidentale), on the [...] Read more.

Hydrogels are substances designed to retain significant quantities of water and slowly release it to support plant growth. This study produced and evaluated the use of a test hydrogel (TH), a natural polymer derived from cashew gum (Anacardium occidentale), on the growth, chemical composition, and mineral content of cactus pear genotypes. The TH was compared to a negative control (no hydrogel; NH), and to a positive control or commercial hydrogel (CH). The CH was a synthetic polyacrylamide-based hydrogel. The study was carried out in a completely randomized design with a 3 × 3 factorial arrangement (n = 36), involving three hydrogel types × three cactus pear genotypes [Elephant Ear (Opuntia stricta); Giant (Opuntia ficus-indica); and Sweet (Nopalea cochenillifera)]. There was a significant effect of interaction (p ≤ 0.05) between genotypes and hydrogel types on cladode area, plant height, dry biomass of cladodes, and macro- and micromineral content. The use of TH promoted greater growth and improved chemical and mineral composition (p ≤ 0.05) to cactus genotypes. The Sweet genotype hydrated with TH presented the highest crude protein accumulation (p ≤ 0.05). Cashew gum-based hydrogel improved both growth and chemical composition of the cactus genotypes, and it is an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic polymers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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21 pages, 3474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tetracycline Degradation by Persulfate Assisted by Fe and N Co-Doped Biochar Derived from Spent Mushroom Substrate for Sustainability: Effect of Pyrolysis Temperature

by Shimiao Xu, Jianning Chang, Yuan Liu, Bingbing Wei, Haibo Zhang, Kokyo Oh, Caiping Cheng and Hongyan Cheng

Sustainability 2025, 17(2), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020395 - 7 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 955

Abstract

Mushroom production is increasing rapidly worldwide, raising public concern about the contamination effects of spent mushroom substrates (SMS). Preparation of Fe–N-doped biochar (Fe-N-BC) from SMS as a raw material for catalytic degradation of antibiotics in water may be an effective and sustainable solid [...] Read more.

Mushroom production is increasing rapidly worldwide, raising public concern about the contamination effects of spent mushroom substrates (SMS). Preparation of Fe–N-doped biochar (Fe-N-BC) from SMS as a raw material for catalytic degradation of antibiotics in water may be an effective and sustainable solid waste treatment. However, there is limited information available. This study investigated the effect and potential mechanism of SMS-based Fe-N-BC prepared at 300, 600, and 900 °C to catalyze persulfate (PS) for tetracycline (TC) removal. The results indicated that the catalytic performance of Fe-N-BC was significantly enhanced with increasing pyrolysis temperature. Notably, Fe-N-BC prepared at 900 °C exhibited high TC removal efficiency, with 95% TC removal at 120 min. This might be closely related to the fact that the Fe-N-BC prepared at high temperatures had more Fe oxides and active sites. Adsorption and radical and non-radical pathways were the main mechanisms for TC removal by Fe-N-BC/PS systems, especially the contribution of SO₄·⁻. By identifying the degradation products, three possible pathways of TC degradation were proposed, and the toxicity of the degradation intermediates was evaluated. The results of the reusability analysis indicated that the Fe-N-BC prepared at 900 °C had good potential for practical application, and the TC removal rate still reached 76%, even after five cycles. These findings provide valuable reference information for solid waste resources’ sustainable utilization and the remediation of antibiotic-contaminated water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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18 pages, 2179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sources and Application Modes of Phosphorus in a No-Till Wheat–Soybean Cropping System

by Vanderson M. Duart, Victor G. Finkler and Eduardo F. Caires

Sustainability 2025, 17(1), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17010268 - 2 Jan 2025

Viewed by 838

Abstract

Phosphate fertilization management under no-till farming has important implications for sustainable agriculture, especially in highly weathered soils. A field experiment examined the effects of phosphorus (P) sources and application modes on soil P levels, plant P nutrition, and grain yields of a wheat–soybean [...] Read more.

Phosphate fertilization management under no-till farming has important implications for sustainable agriculture, especially in highly weathered soils. A field experiment examined the effects of phosphorus (P) sources and application modes on soil P levels, plant P nutrition, and grain yields of a wheat–soybean cropping system under no-till. Five cycles of a wheat–soybean crop succession were evaluated on an Oxisol in the period from 2016 to 2021 in the State of Parana, Brazil. The treatments consisted of fertilization with monoammonium phosphate (MAP) and single superphosphate (SSP), in addition to a control without P, to subplots within plots with in-furrow and broadcast P applications. The annual application of 100 kg of P₂O₅ ha⁻¹ from phosphate sources, either broadcast or in the sowing furrow, was sufficient to maintain an adequate level of P in the soil, supply P demand for the secession of wheat–soybean crops, and obtain high grain yields. In a wheat–soybean cropping system, the application of the fertilizers MAP or SSP-based phosphates in the sowing furrow or broadcast in wheat crop is a strategy that should be encouraged in highly weathered soils under no-till to minimize P fixation to soil particles, improve P-leaf concentration, and increase wheat and soybean grain yields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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12 pages, 11356 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Problems of Sustainable Agriculture with Regard to the Destruction of the European Corn Borer in Maize Plantations

by Marcin Zastempowski, Robert Lamparski, Andrzej Bochat, Jerzy Kaszkowiak, Sebastian Sendel and Łukasz Gierz

Sustainability 2024, 16(22), 9685; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229685 - 7 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1126

Abstract

This article describes the results of the studies related to the occurrence of the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis Hbn) pest carried out at the Technical University of Bydgoszcz. The studies concerned the real occurrence of the pest in corn stubble [...] Read more.

This article describes the results of the studies related to the occurrence of the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis Hbn) pest carried out at the Technical University of Bydgoszcz. The studies concerned the real occurrence of the pest in corn stubble (cultivated variety SY Collosseum). The research issue undertaken is in line with an IPM (integrated pest management) system and is important since the feeding of the European corn borer can lead to large, direct yield losses estimated nationally at an average of up to about 20%, which does not differ significantly from that of world crops. Corn, for the purposes of this study, was harvested for green fodder in September, and for grain in November 2022, using a John Deere X9 1110 harvester. The average stubble height when cut for green fodder was 280 mm, while for grain it was 265 mm. The experimental studies conducted clearly showed that European corn borer larvae colonized as much as 12% of corn samples harvested for grain at an average stubble height of 155 mm, and 19% of corn samples harvested for grain at an average height of 75 mm. The conducted studies also showed that the average diameter of the stems at the height of the residence of the corn borer larvae when harvested for green fodder is 19.80 mm, and 21.80 mm for grain. The studies conducted by the authors showed the randomness of the locations of the pest larvae, which clearly indicates that the generally known and used mechanical methods of its control are not fully effective. Therefore, the authors presented their own design of a machine construction (filed with the patent office of the Republic of Poland) for destroying the European corn borer in a mechanical way without the use of crop protection chemicals. The presented research problem in this paper is of national and global importance considering the fact that corn is grown on an area of nearly 162 million hectares, where we have to deal with the European corn borer pest. In the case of implementing the design of the construction of a machine for destroying the pest, there will be no need to use chemical pesticides, which will significantly contribute to environmental protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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18 pages, 2459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Dynamics as the Main Limitation for Agricultural Sustainability in a Colombian Indigenous Community

by Cintya Ojeda, Jhoana P. Romero-Leiton, Mónica Jhoana Mesa, Juan Zapata, Alvaro Ceballos, Solanyi Ordoñez and Ivan Felipe Benavides

Sustainability 2024, 16(19), 8611; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16198611 - 4 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1427

Abstract

Ancient agroecological farms, or chagras, of the Kamëntšá Biyá and Kamëntšá Inga indigenous communities in the Sibundoy Valley of Colombia offer valuable insights into the environmental challenges of intensive agriculture and promote sustainable food production. Sustainability indices have been developed to assess farm-level [...] Read more.

Ancient agroecological farms, or chagras, of the Kamëntšá Biyá and Kamëntšá Inga indigenous communities in the Sibundoy Valley of Colombia offer valuable insights into the environmental challenges of intensive agriculture and promote sustainable food production. Sustainability indices have been developed to assess farm-level sustainability and enhance agroecological practices; however, data limitations hinder monitoring and correlation with external factors. This study evaluated sustainability indices in Sibundoy Valley chagras using the holistic evaluation system for farming intensification (HESOFI) interview system with 800 randomly selected chagras, assessing economic, agro-environmental, and sociopolitical–cultural dimensions. The endogenous factors considered included areas managed with diversified agricultural systems, the percentage of transformed products, inputs generated by the chagra, and products intended for sale. Exogenous factors included distance to rivers, roads, cities, and vegetation index ratio. The results showed that all chagras fell below the minimum sustainability threshold (80%), with the economic dimension scoring the lowest. Based on these findings, three strategies were proposed to improve the economic scores and overall sustainability indices of these chagras. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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19 pages, 8890 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring a Self-Sufficiency Approach within a Sustainable Integrated Pisciculture Farming System

by Iulian Voicea, Florin Nenciu, Nicolae-Valentin Vlăduț, Mihai-Gabriel Matache, Catalin Persu and Dan Cujbescu

Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 8055; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16188055 - 14 Sep 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2211

Abstract

The pandemic crisis has created significant challenges for small farms, leading to increased energy costs, higher prices for feed and nutrients, unreliable supplies of chemical fertilizers, and disruptions in product sales markets. These factors have collectively compromised the operational viability and economic sustainability [...] Read more.

The pandemic crisis has created significant challenges for small farms, leading to increased energy costs, higher prices for feed and nutrients, unreliable supplies of chemical fertilizers, and disruptions in product sales markets. These factors have collectively compromised the operational viability and economic sustainability of small-scale agricultural enterprises. To address these challenges, this paper explores the concept of a self-sufficient farming system, focusing on locally producing most of the resources needed to sustain operations and reduce dependence on external sources. A self-sufficient integrated pisciculture farming system is proposed and evaluated, promoting an autonomous circular model that prioritizes environmental sustainability. This system incorporates the integration of local livestock into fish diets, production of renewable energy sources, and efficient water and sludge management to reduce reliance on external resources. The detailed methodology used to evaluate sustainability indicators objectively demonstrates that the proposed system can be self-sustainable and autonomous; however, it requires considerable initial investments that can be recovered within at least six years. Optimizing the energy management plan can reduce daily power consumption by up to 25%. However, local conditions may challenge the efficiency of photovoltaic–hybrid energy production, requiring slight oversizing of the system. The research indicated that rearing carp with cereal-based feed mixtures produces growth results comparable to those achieved with commercially purchased feed. The indicators of resource efficiency, reliability, flexibility, productivity, environmental impact, and social impact were met as expected. The weakest indicator was the technology’s potential for scalability, due to its strong dependence on various regional factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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18 pages, 456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Biostimulation Activity of Two Novel Benzothiadiazole Derivatives in the Tomato Cultivation

by Rafal Kukawka, Maciej Spychalski, Marcin Smiglak and Renata Gaj

Sustainability 2024, 16(12), 5191; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16125191 - 18 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1353

Abstract

Biostimulants are gaining more and more attention in modern agriculture. As follows from the definition, their role is aimed at influencing the plant’s metabolism, which results in increasing the quantitative and qualitative parameters describing the yield. Significant attention should be paid to biostimulants [...] Read more.

Biostimulants are gaining more and more attention in modern agriculture. As follows from the definition, their role is aimed at influencing the plant’s metabolism, which results in increasing the quantitative and qualitative parameters describing the yield. Significant attention should be paid to biostimulants increasing the content of health-promoting substances contained in plants. Treatments with biostimulants should be properly incorporated into existing plant protection schemes, which, of course, requires detailed research in this area. However, reliable research on active substances contained in biostimulants should be made first, and the activity of a given biostimulant must be proven. This work presents the results of a field experiment in tomato cultivation for two new active substances belonging to the group of benzothiadiazoles. The results indicate a positive effect on plant yield and, above all, on the lycopene content in tomato fruits. Increasing the lycopene content in fruit is of key significance, as it opens up opportunities for these active substances to be incorporated into new plant protection programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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Review

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20 pages, 508 KiB

Open AccessReview

Pesticide Residues in Brazil: Analysis of Environmental Legislation and Regulation and the Challenge of Sustainable Production

by Gabriela Madureira Barroso, Isabela Goulart Custódio, Cláudia Eduarda Borges, Elizângela Aparecida dos Santos, Thiago Almeida Andrade Pinto, Marcus Alvarenga Soares, Tayna Sousa Duque, Caique Menezes de Abreu and José Barbosa dos Santos

Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2583; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062583 - 14 Mar 2025

Viewed by 1240

Abstract

This paper critically examines Brazil’s legislative framework for pesticide waste management, highlighting recent advancements and persistent challenges. The introduction of Law 14785/2023 marks a pivotal shift in pesticide regulation, streamlining registration processes and enhancing safety measures. This law consolidates various aspects of pesticide [...] Read more.

This paper critically examines Brazil’s legislative framework for pesticide waste management, highlighting recent advancements and persistent challenges. The introduction of Law 14785/2023 marks a pivotal shift in pesticide regulation, streamlining registration processes and enhancing safety measures. This law consolidates various aspects of pesticide management, from research to disposal, aiming for more efficient oversight. Complementary to this, foundational laws such as the Federal Constitution (1988), Law 6938/1981 (National Environmental Policy), Law 12651/2012 (New Forest Code), and Law 13123/2015 (Biodiversity Law) establish broad guidelines for environmental protection and the sustainable use of resources. Specific regulations, including the Environmental Crimes Act (Law 9605/1998) and CONAMA Resolutions No. 465/2014 and No. 420/2009, address critical aspects of pesticide waste, focusing on proper disposal and soil quality management. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in the effective implementation of these laws. Inadequate monitoring systems and limited stakeholder awareness hinder regulatory enforcement. Strategic recommendations to address these issues include enhancing monitoring technologies, strengthening educational initiatives, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and adapting legislation to keep pace with technological advancements. A robust pesticide waste management system is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability in agricultural production. Inefficient disposal practices can contaminate soil and water, posing risks to biodiversity and public health. By reinforcing regulatory enforcement and integrating sustainable waste management strategies, Brazil can mitigate the environmental impact of pesticide use while promoting safer agricultural practices. The ongoing evolution of legislation reflects a commitment to sustainability; however, continuous efforts are necessary to fully realize these goals and align agricultural development with environmental conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of the Agricultural System and Agro-Ecological Environment)

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