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16 pages, 424 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of the Digital Economy in Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Development: Implications for Sustainable Food Security

by Xia Kuang, Hailan Qiu, Zhipeng Wang, Jiawei Wang and Feng Ye

Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3777; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093777 - 22 Apr 2025

Viewed by 538

Abstract

The digital economy is increasingly recognized as a key force behind sustainable agricultural development, transforming farm management and enhancing food security through innovation, resource optimization, and data-driven decision-making. This study examines how participation in the digital economy affects the agricultural management scale of [...] Read more.

The digital economy is increasingly recognized as a key force behind sustainable agricultural development, transforming farm management and enhancing food security through innovation, resource optimization, and data-driven decision-making. This study examines how participation in the digital economy affects the agricultural management scale of high-quality farmers in Jiangxi Province, China. Based on survey data from 868 farmers collected in 2022, we apply Ordinary Least Squares regression models, instrumental variable approaches, and mediation analysis to identify the mechanisms at work. The findings indicate that digital economy participation significantly expands agricultural management scale by promoting land transfer-in and elevating farmers’ subjective social status. Further heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive impact is more pronounced among older farmers and those not intending to pursue further education. These insights highlight the essential role of digital tools in fostering sustainable and scalable farming practices and offer practical implications for rural digital transformation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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19 pages, 12922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geospatial Analysis of Crop Residue Burn Areas and Their Dates for Emission Mitigation Strategies

by Pranay Panjala, Murali Krishna Gumma, Shashi Mesapam, Anoop Kumar Shukla and Gloria Pignatta

Sustainability 2025, 17(6), 2508; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17062508 - 12 Mar 2025

Viewed by 1308

Abstract

Mitigating the environmental impact of agricultural practices, particularly intensive rice farming, is critical in the face of climate change. This study focuses on mapping rice residue burn areas and their dates while estimating the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with residue burning and [...] Read more.

Mitigating the environmental impact of agricultural practices, particularly intensive rice farming, is critical in the face of climate change. This study focuses on mapping rice residue burn areas and their dates while estimating the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with residue burning and rice cultivation. By using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, machine learning algorithms, and ground truth data, we analyzed changes in rice cultivation patterns before and after the Kaleshwaram intervention. The Near-Infrared Region (NIR) band was instrumental in accurately identifying residue burn areas and pinpointing burn dates, enabling timely alerts for decision-makers to act. Detailed quantifications of CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O emissions from crop residue burning, alongside methane emissions from rice cultivation, highlight the significant contribution of these practices to overall GHG emissions. Key findings reveal a significant 82.1% increase in rice cultivation area from 2018–2019 to 2022–2023, accompanied by a worrying rise in residue burning, with some regions experiencing up to a 276% increase in burn areas. This research not only reveals the dual challenges of residue burning and GHG emissions but also emphasizes the importance of integrating precise burn date monitoring with emission data. The findings provide a strong foundation for implementing sustainable crop residue management strategies and developing informed policies to mitigate the adverse environmental effects of rice farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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28 pages, 4195 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Carbon Emissions Trading Pilot Policies on High-Quality Agricultural Development: An Empirical Assessment Using Double Machine Learning

by Shilong Xi, Xiaohui Wang and Kejun Lin

Sustainability 2025, 17(5), 1912; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17051912 - 24 Feb 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1016

Abstract

Amid the pressing challenges of global warming, carbon trading policies have gained increasing importance in advancing green development. This study employs Double Machine Learning (DML) to effectively process high-dimensional data and nonlinear relationships, integrating methods such as Difference-in-Differences (DID) to systematically address endogeneity [...] Read more.

Amid the pressing challenges of global warming, carbon trading policies have gained increasing importance in advancing green development. This study employs Double Machine Learning (DML) to effectively process high-dimensional data and nonlinear relationships, integrating methods such as Difference-in-Differences (DID) to systematically address endogeneity issues. Using an indicator system for High-Quality Agricultural Development (HQAD) covering 30 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions, this study aims to evaluate the impact of the pilot carbon emissions trading (CET) policy on HQAD. The findings are as follows: (1) The pilot CET policy significantly enhances HQAD. Though the positive effect has diminished, multi-dimensional robustness checks confirm the results’ credibility and stability. (2) Mechanism analysis shows that the policy promotes HQAD through two key pathways: strengthening environmental regulation (ER) and improving agricultural energy total factor productivity (AETFP). (3) Regional heterogeneity is evident, with the eastern region showing the most substantial policy effects, followed by the western region, while the central region shows minimal impact. Regarding grain functional zones, the policy effect is significant in the main sales and balance areas but weaker in the main producing area. Based on these findings, this study provides three policy recommendations to inform policymaking, facilitate the green transition, and promote High-Quality Agricultural Development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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27 pages, 310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Agro-Food Planning System: Democratic, Decentralized, Holistic, and Voluntary Participatory

by Murat Öztürk

Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9441; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219441 - 30 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1472

Abstract

In both capitalist and socialist economies, agricultural planning has been understood as the allocation of areas for planting of certain products; the production potential and ability to act rationally of farmers, the main productive actors, have been neglected. In addition, in both economic [...] Read more.

In both capitalist and socialist economies, agricultural planning has been understood as the allocation of areas for planting of certain products; the production potential and ability to act rationally of farmers, the main productive actors, have been neglected. In addition, in both economic structures, the desired results have only been partially achieved by determining prices. These experiences reveal two important results. Firstly, agriculture can not be fully planned, but it cannot be continued without planning either. Secondly, it is necessary for agricultural products to have an exchange value, but price is a multifunctional phenomenon and how it is determined is important. The current equivalent of the claim that prices are determined through the market mechanism is to advocate that prices are determined by capitalist companies that have monopoly power in the markets. The increasingly severe problems and increasing fragility of agricultural food markets, which are already largely under the control of these institutions, already show that this structure is not a solution. On the other hand, it is no longer possible to provide food security by planning for primary agricultural products alone; agro-food production and distribution have acquired different structural characteristics, and it has become necessary to address food security within the framework of agro-food systems. Therefore, effective agricultural planning requires the planning of the agricultural food system as a whole. The e-nam system being popularized in India has achieved a certain success and shows not only that it is possible to organize and manage agricultural food markets after primary production but also that technological opportunities offer effective planning opportunities. In this study, based on historical and current experiences, the inadequacies of the market mechanism, the fact that agricultural production is carried out by using living things to produce living things, and the dependency of uncontrollable factors are taken into consideration in the development of a democratic mix of centralized and decentralized planning aimed at determining both the production quantities and prices by utilizing the capacity and conditions of farmers and technological opportunities to meet today’s needs. In accordance with this result, a basic planning proposal is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

16 pages, 1401 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Climate Change on Agricultural Production and Food Security: A Case Study in the Mekong River Delta of Vietnam

by Tran Trong Phuong, Tran Duc Vien, Cao Truong Son, Doan Thanh Thuy and Stefan Greiving

Sustainability 2024, 16(17), 7776; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16177776 - 6 Sep 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7607

Abstract

Vietnam is a country highly vulnerable to climate change. Specifically, climate change has seriously impacted all aspects of Vietnam’s economic and social life, especially agricultural production. In this article, we focus on analyzing the current situation and the impacts of climate change on [...] Read more.

Vietnam is a country highly vulnerable to climate change. Specifically, climate change has seriously impacted all aspects of Vietnam’s economic and social life, especially agricultural production. In this article, we focus on analyzing the current situation and the impacts of climate change on agricultural production and food security in Vietnam, especially in the Mekong River Delta (MRD) region. Vietnam’s climate change scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP 8.5) have warned of serious increases in temperature, rainfall, and sea level rises for the MRD in coming times. This will lead to a risk of flooding in nearly 50% of the region’s area and will seriously affect agricultural production in many aspects such as soil quality degradation, scarcity of water resources, increased droughts and floods, reduced crop productivity, and so on. These impacts will reduce Vietnam’s food supply capacity, but do not compromise national food security from a short-term perspective. Faced with this situation, the Government of Vietnam has implemented many comprehensive measures to transform agriculture towards ecology, sustainability, and low carbon emissions, with the goal of green growth and neutral carbon emissions by 2050. In particular, the focus is on combining nature-based solutions with the application of modern science and technology in agricultural production, raising awareness and the response capacity of domestic people, with international cooperation in addressing climate change issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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16 pages, 981 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geographical Variation in Pasturelands and Their Impact on the Physicochemical Characterization and Fatty Acid Composition of Cheese in Caraș-Severin County, Romania

by Alexandra-Ioana Ibric, Ileana Cocan, Ersilia Alexa, Călin Jianu, Monica Negrea, Alina Andreea Dragoescu, Raul-Cristian Jurcuț and Tiberiu Iancu

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 7179; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16167179 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1192

Abstract

In Caraș-Severin County, Romania, the integration of sustainable agricultural practices with organic dairy production represents a unique opportunity to promote agro-tourism farms and guesthouses. This study examines the synergy between the chemical composition of pastures from three farms in different alleys and the [...] Read more.

In Caraș-Severin County, Romania, the integration of sustainable agricultural practices with organic dairy production represents a unique opportunity to promote agro-tourism farms and guesthouses. This study examines the synergy between the chemical composition of pastures from three farms in different alleys and the impact on the chemical composition of dairy products produced on those farms. Thus, the comparative analysis of two types of traditional cow’s cheeses (soft and mature) from three different areas of Caraș-Severin County was pursued, as well as of the feed given to the animals from which the raw material for obtaining the cheeses originated. Initially, the physicochemical profile of the pastures (fresh grass and grass hay) was analyzed in terms of proximate composition (moisture, lipids, proteins, ash and carbohydrates), and the content of bioactive compounds (total polyphenols, antioxidant activity using the DPPH method). The proximate composition of the cheese samples, including moisture, lipids, proteins, ash and carbohydrates was analysed, and the content of fatty acids. A correlation was also made between the content of bioactive compounds in feed samples and fatty acid profile of the cheese samples. Our findings demonstrate that the geographical area and the chemical composition of the pasture have a considerable influence on the physicochemical characterization and fatty acid composition of the cheese. The cheese from the mountain area had a higher fat, protein and polyunsaturated fatty acid content compared to the samples from the hill and plain areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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17 pages, 1498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Reduced Tillage and Residue Incorporation as Sustainable Agricultural Practices on the Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Rice

by Tahsina Sharmin Hoque, Jannatul Ferdous, Nusrat Jahan Mim, Sayful Islam, Md. Anamul Hoque, Mohamed M. Hassan and Mohammad Anwar Hossain

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 6994; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16166994 - 15 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1783

Abstract

In cereal-based farming, there is significant influence of tillage and residue incorporation as sustainable practices, although their role in crop production is still unclear. Two field trials were executed during winter seasons to evaluate the best-performing crop residue and tillage system for the [...] Read more.

In cereal-based farming, there is significant influence of tillage and residue incorporation as sustainable practices, although their role in crop production is still unclear. Two field trials were executed during winter seasons to evaluate the best-performing crop residue and tillage system for the nutrition and yield of rice at the Soil Science Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University. In the first trial, residues from soybean, black gram, and rice were incorporated into the soil with 75% recommended fertilizer doses (RFD). The grain yields were 5.97, 6.21, and 6.10 t ha⁻¹, respectively in rice, soybean, and black gram residue-treated plots, which were increased by 77.15, 84.27, and 81.01%, respectively, over the control. In the second trial, the residues from black gram and rice were incorporated with 100% RFD under conventional tillage (CT) and minimum tillage (MT) for two years, where CT with black gram residue plus 100% fertilizer (CT-I₂) exhibited the highest grain yield of 6.69 and 6.88 t ha⁻¹, increasing by 7.61% and 8% over 100% RFD. Both CT and MT performed similarly, and their combination with legume residue strongly influenced crop performance and nutrient uptake. Therefore, incorporating legume residue under minimum tillage can be a sustainable approach for better rice yield and nutritional uptake. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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24 pages, 3027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Objective Optimization of the Planting Industry in Jiangsu Province and Analysis of Its “Water-Energy-Carbon” Characteristics

by Yizhen Jia and Xiaodong Yan

Sustainability 2024, 16(7), 2792; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16072792 - 27 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1624

Abstract

The modern development of the planting industry needs to not only ensure food supply but also to consider social and environmental issues. This poses higher demands for rational planning of planting structures to achieve green development while meeting demands and conserving resources. Therefore, [...] Read more.

The modern development of the planting industry needs to not only ensure food supply but also to consider social and environmental issues. This poses higher demands for rational planning of planting structures to achieve green development while meeting demands and conserving resources. Therefore, this paper takes Jiangsu Province as a representative case, accounting for and analyzing the water footprint, energy consumption, and carbon emissions of seven major crops. Based on this analysis, a multi-objective planning model is established to explore the optimization of its planting structure. The results show that: (1) from 2010 to 2020, the overall water footprint of these seven crops in Jiangsu Province initially increased and then decreased, while energy consumption showed a fluctuating upward trend; (2) carbon emissions from planting in Jiangsu Province initially increased and then fluctuated downward over time, and exhibited significant spatial clustering characteristics, with overall emissions being higher in northern Jiangsu, followed by central Jiangsu, and then southern Jiangsu; (3) the optimization results indicate that economic benefits increased by 4.06%, while the carbon emission and grey water footprints decreased by 3.78% and 7.62%, respectively, resulting in comprehensive improvements in economic and ecological benefits. This study can provide theoretical support for adjusting the planting structure in crop-producing areas and promoting the green and sustainable development of the planting industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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14 pages, 881 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Potential of Moringa oleifera as a Sustainable Broiler Feed Additive: Investigating Awareness, Perceptions and Use by Broiler Farmers and Moringa Farmers in South Africa

by Nobuhle S. Lungu, Joyce G. Maina, Martin Dallimer and Este van Marle-Köster

Sustainability 2024, 16(5), 2208; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16052208 - 6 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 6170

Abstract

Moringa oleifera’s high nutritional value and bioactive properties have attracted significant scientific research interest as an additive in broiler feed for sustainable broiler production. The tree’s multifunctional characteristics make it a potent alternative growth promoter for broilers and a valuable resource to [...] Read more.

Moringa oleifera’s high nutritional value and bioactive properties have attracted significant scientific research interest as an additive in broiler feed for sustainable broiler production. The tree’s multifunctional characteristics make it a potent alternative growth promoter for broilers and a valuable resource to address Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty alleviation, food security, good health, and responsible consumption. Moreover, it provides a less expensive and environmentally friendly alternative for broiler farmers. However, less is known about the awareness, perceptions, and prevailing practices of broiler farmers and M. oleifera farmers regarding the plant’s use as an additive. This study determined the awareness, perceptions, and practices of M. oleifera use among broiler and M. oleifera farmers in South Africa. Quantitative data collected from 165 purposively sampled small-scale broiler farmers, along with qualitative insights from 11 key informants, indicated that 66.7% of respondents, primarily females, knew about M. oleifera but lacked awareness of its benefits for broilers (82.4%). Awareness varied significantly (p < 0.05) by gender. Only 10.9% of those aware used M. oleifera, predominantly small-scale female farmers. Leaves and stems were common parts used, added to feed, or infused in water. Perceived benefits included improved growth rates and reduced mortalities. Large-scale broiler farmers expressed interest if provided with more information on the nutritional benefits and the availability of bulk M. oleifera to sustain their large operations. The study underscores the need for targeted awareness campaigns, especially among female farmers, and providing guidelines for M. oleifera use. Formulating broiler diets that include M. oleifera as an ingredient will require a consistent supply, which is currently lacking. Therefore, there is a need to address the production capacity to meet the requirements of larger broiler operations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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15 pages, 8145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fog Water Collection for Local Greenhouse Vegetable Production in the Atacama Desert

by Francisco Albornoz, Camilo del Río, Virginia Carter, Rodrigo Escobar and Lucas Vásquez

Sustainability 2023, 15(22), 15720; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152215720 - 8 Nov 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2782

Abstract

Agricultural production in the Atacama Desert is restricted by extreme aridity and poor soil quality. Between 18° S and 30° S, low stratocumulus clouds regularly cover the southeastern Pacific Ocean reaching the Coastal Cordillera. Thus, marine fog is constantly present in the coastal [...] Read more.

Agricultural production in the Atacama Desert is restricted by extreme aridity and poor soil quality. Between 18° S and 30° S, low stratocumulus clouds regularly cover the southeastern Pacific Ocean reaching the Coastal Cordillera. Thus, marine fog is constantly present in the coastal areas of the desert. Fog can be harvested using fog collectors. However, limited information is available with regards to the variability of fog presence throughout the year and along the coast of the desert. Combining fog water harvest with hydroponic production under greenhouse facilities presents an alternative for sustainable and local fresh food production. In this article, we analyze the potential of fog water collection in two sites (Alto Patache and Falda Verde) distant by about 1000 km within the Atacama Desert. Additionally, in both locations, the environmental conditions within greenhouse structures, the potential energy requirement for environmental conditioning (including the energy production from photovoltaic panels) and the water requirements of vegetable crops under greenhouse conditions were modeled. The annual average of fog water collection registered was 2.9 and 3.3 L per day per m² in Alto Patache and Falda Verde, respectively. During the most demanding season for crop evapotranspiration, 2.13 m² of fog collectors can supply the water required for 1 m² of greenhouse crops. The energy required for water and air pumps in the hydroponic systems can be supplied with photovoltaic systems including eight PV modules and a battery storage capacity of 9.4 kWh. In conclusion, the present study sheds light on the possibilities of massive water collection from fog to be used in local and sustainable food production in the Atacama Desert. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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13 pages, 4749 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying the Impacts of Urbanization on Urban Agriculture and Food Security in the Megacity Lahore, Pakistan

by Muhammad Mushahid Anwar, Juergen H. Breuste, Ayaz Ahmad, Asad Aziz and Ali Abdullah Aldosari

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12143; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612143 - 8 Aug 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5914

Abstract

As a response to food security, urban agriculture is essential for sustainable development. The primary goal of this study is to provide the basic formulation and theoretical knowledge for sustainable urban agriculture by analyzing the impact of urbanization on urban agriculture and food [...] Read more.

As a response to food security, urban agriculture is essential for sustainable development. The primary goal of this study is to provide the basic formulation and theoretical knowledge for sustainable urban agriculture by analyzing the impact of urbanization on urban agriculture and food security. For the food security assessment, the variables included food consumption and quality of food as the independent variables, and monthly income of local dwellers as the dependent variable; these were considered for the regression analysis and statistical analysis. The food security assessment was checked and expressed using regression values of R, which was 0.857, and an adjusted R square, with a value of 0.728. The results show extensive change in food security issues and land use due to urbanization causes, large-scale damage to agricultural land in the area, and loss of biodiversity, which threaten food security by converting natural land into built-up areas. The study concludes that urban agriculture is a fundamental environmental activity to ensure food security by increasing food production for locals and improving urban biodiversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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12 pages, 692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Introducing New Cropping Pattern to Increase Cropping Intensity in Hill Tract Area in Bangladesh

by Rigyan Gupta, Mohammad Joyel Sarkar, Md. Shafiqul Islam, Md. Romij Uddin, Israt Jahan Riza, Sirajam Monira, Farhana Zaman, Ahmed Khairul Hasan, A. K. M. Mominul Islam, Abeer Hashem, Graciela Dolores Avila-Quezada, Javid A. Parray, Elsayed Fathi Abd_Allah and Uttam Kumer Sarker

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11471; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411471 - 24 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4669

Abstract

In Bangladesh’s hill regions, where there is less cultivable land, increasing crop output requires efficient land use. Thus, in this challenging farming setting, two crop-based patterns evolved into three or four crop-based patterns. To increase cropping intensity and farmer income by incorporating mustard [...] Read more.

In Bangladesh’s hill regions, where there is less cultivable land, increasing crop output requires efficient land use. Thus, in this challenging farming setting, two crop-based patterns evolved into three or four crop-based patterns. To increase cropping intensity and farmer income by incorporating mustard and mungbean in a rice-based cropping pattern, a field experiment was carried out at Sadar and Panchari Upazila, Khagrachhari during 2017–2018 and 2018–2019. Two years’ mean data (using a block farming approach) showed that the modified pattern had produced a much higher yield through improved management practices. In the improved cropping pattern (Transplant aman (T. aman)–mustard–mungbean–aus rice), a higher rice equivalent yield (16.25 t ha⁻¹) was found due to the inclusion of mustard and mungbean in the existing rice-based cropping patterns T. aman–fallow–boro (9.87 t ha⁻¹) and T. aman–fallow–tomato (9.09 t ha⁻¹). The gross margin from the improved cropping pattern was 448,715 BDT, which was 44.26% higher than the mean gross margin (311,050 BDT) of the two existing cropping patterns. Farmers are interested in growing mustard and mungbean since both can easily cultivated in hilly areas and can yield great economic returns quickly. For the large-scale production of oil and pulse, the T. aman–mustard–mungbean–aus rice cropping pattern might be introduced in the Khagrachhari district of Bangladesh. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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15 pages, 3577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSPs), Livelihood Resources and Aspirations of the Matigsalog and Ata Tribes

by Erna S. Macusi, Anthony C. Sales, Edison D. Macusi, Henzel P. Bongas, Melanie A. Cayacay, Juber L. Omandam, Marthje Schüler and Camila Vidal

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11182; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411182 - 18 Jul 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 37037

Abstract

The Philippines is an archipelagic country composed of different indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) spread across various islands. Indigenous peoples (IP) often face marginalization and lack access to the same resources available in lowland areas, creating inequality and barriers to their well-being and development. [...] Read more.

The Philippines is an archipelagic country composed of different indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) spread across various islands. Indigenous peoples (IP) often face marginalization and lack access to the same resources available in lowland areas, creating inequality and barriers to their well-being and development. This study documents the indigenous knowledge systems and practices of the Matigsalog and Ata tribes in Davao City, focusing on their unique agricultural techniques, rituals, and conservation practices. Furthermore, we assessed their current livelihood options and explored opportunities for government support to improve their well-being. A focus group discussion was used to assess the knowledge and perception of participants from the Matigsalog tribe (N = 42) and Ata tribe (N = 15) of Davao City. Validation of the study took place separately through a brief presentation of the results before 15 members of the tribes and a hiking visit to their farmlands. The study determined the existing livelihoods in the two areas, which were mainly agricultural, farming of crops (rice, corn, cassava, sweet potato) and fruit trees (coconut, banana, durian, jackfruit, pomelo) and the community’s resources as well as knowledge, systems, and practices with regard to agricultural crops including climate change. Their sustainable farming practices include intercropping, seed-saving, and exchange practices, preserving these crop varieties and ensuring their availability for future planting seasons, with no usage of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. In conclusion, the tribe’s aspirations and the resulting recommendations are consolidated to facilitate and enhance governmental assistance in a more focused and efficient manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 380 KiB

Open AccessReview

Conservation and Promotion of Neglected and Underutilized Crop Species in West Africa: Policy and Governance

by Hamid El Bilali, Susanna Rokka, Generosa Calabrese, Teresa Borelli, Francesca Grazioli, Sheirita Reine Fanta Tietiambou, Jacques Nanema, Iro Dan Guimbo, Lawali Dambo, Bassirou Nouhou, Maria Gonnella and Filippo Acasto

Sustainability 2024, 16(14), 6194; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16146194 - 19 Jul 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3124

Abstract

Neglected and underutilized crop species (NUCS/NUS) are claimed to contribute to sustainable development. However, many scholars argue that enabling policies and appropriate governance are needed to operationalize such a potential contribution. Therefore, this systematic review analyzes the literature dealing with the relationships between [...] Read more.

Neglected and underutilized crop species (NUCS/NUS) are claimed to contribute to sustainable development. However, many scholars argue that enabling policies and appropriate governance are needed to operationalize such a potential contribution. Therefore, this systematic review analyzes the literature dealing with the relationships between policy and governance aspects and the promotion of NUS in West Africa. It draws upon 45 eligible articles identified through a search conducted on the Web of Science in December 2023. The existing literature focuses on Nigeria and a few NUS, especially cassava. The addressed policy domains include biodiversity conservation; subsidies; seed systems; food security, self-sufficiency and sovereignty; trade and import substitution; food safety and health; climate change and energy; land use; research, innovation and development; and support and assistance systems. Meanwhile, the main governance domains are (1) inclusiveness and participation and (2) institutional capacity. The analysis suggests that NUS development is also affected by sectoral policy coherence and consistency as well as the policy–governance interplay. Future studies should widen the scope in terms of geographical coverage in West Africa and NUS addressed to allow for more comparisons. Furthermore, there is a need for further research to understand the synergies and trade-offs between sectoral policies affecting NUS promotion and development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

14 pages, 963 KiB

Open AccessReview

Can Aquaponics Be Utilized to Reach Zero Hunger at a Local Level?

by Priscila Sarai Flores-Aguilar, Julieta Sánchez-Velázquez, Humberto Aguirre-Becerra, Guillermo Abraham Peña-Herrejón, Sergio Aurelio Zamora-Castro and Genaro Martín Soto-Zarazúa

Sustainability 2024, 16(3), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16031130 - 29 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3315

Abstract

Meeting the demand for food through sustainable agro-industrial systems has become a concern due to the current state of the planet’s natural resources, population growth, and climate change. To address this, the 2030 Agenda has laid out several strategies to enhance human well-being [...] Read more.

Meeting the demand for food through sustainable agro-industrial systems has become a concern due to the current state of the planet’s natural resources, population growth, and climate change. To address this, the 2030 Agenda has laid out several strategies to enhance human well-being and protect the planet. This paper focuses on Goal 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. The first three targets of this goal are as follows: 2.1, ending hunger and ensuring access to nutritious food; 2.2, ending all forms of malnutrition; and 2.3, doubling the agricultural productivity of small-scale food producers. The purpose of this manuscript is to demonstrate how aquaponics can positively impact these three targets by guaranteeing food security through the production of high-quality protein. Aquaponic crops are enriched with organic nutrients from the water they grow in. This not only increases their nutrient content but also their bioactive molecule content, making them excellent for fighting hunger and malnutrition. Moreover, these practices can be adjusted to different scales, making them a viable option for small farmers, women, and rural communities to produce their own food. Consequently, aquaponics can play a crucial role in achieving Zero Hunger locally, with appropriate support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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29 pages, 1766 KiB

Open AccessReview

Agroecological Nutrient Management Strategy for Attaining Sustainable Rice Self-Sufficiency in Indonesia

by Winda Ika Susanti, Sri Noor Cholidah and Fahmuddin Agus

Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020845 - 18 Jan 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6010

Abstract

Rice self-sufficiency is central to Indonesia’s agricultural development, but the country is increasingly challenged by population growth, climate change, and arable land scarcity. Agroecological nutrient management offers solutions though optimized fertilization, enhanced organic matter and biofertilizer utilizations, and improved farming systems and water [...] Read more.

Rice self-sufficiency is central to Indonesia’s agricultural development, but the country is increasingly challenged by population growth, climate change, and arable land scarcity. Agroecological nutrient management offers solutions though optimized fertilization, enhanced organic matter and biofertilizer utilizations, and improved farming systems and water management. Besides providing enough nutrients for crops, the agroecological approach also enhances resilience to climate change, reduces the intensity of greenhouse gas emissions, and improves the biological functions of rice soil. Organic and bio fertilizers can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. For example, blue-green algae may contribute 30–40 kg N ha⁻¹, while the application of phosphate solubilizing microbes can reduce the use of chemical phosphorous fertilizers by up to 50 percent. The country currently experiences substantial yield gaps of about 37 percent in irrigated and 48 percent in rain-fed rice. Achieving self-sufficiency requires that Indonesia accelerates annual yield growth through agroecological nutrient management from a historical 40 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ to 74 kg ha⁻¹ year⁻¹. The aim is to raise the average yield from the current 5.2 t ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ to 7.3 t ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ by 2050. Simultaneously, controlling paddy field conversion to a maximum of 30,000 hectares per year is crucial. This strategic approach anticipates Indonesia’s milled rice production to reach around 40 million metric tonnes (Mt) by 2050, with an expected surplus of about 4 Mt. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security)

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