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Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops
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Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Agriculture".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 2 October 2024 | Viewed by 5035

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Fokion Papathanasiou

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Guest Editor
Department of Agriculture, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Florina, Greece
Interests: sustainable agriculture; landraces; botany; crop physiology; climate change and agriculture; quality characteristics; stress physiology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Elissavet Ninou

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Geotechnical Sciences, Department of Agriculture, International Hellenic University, Sindos, 57400 Thessaloniki, Greece
Interests: agronomic use of plant genetic resources; abiotic stress; multienvironment field evaluation; cereals; legumes; medicinal and aromatic crops; crop physiology; cultivation systems; resource use efficiency; agro-biodiversity
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Ioannis Mylonas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Plant Breeding and Genetic Resources, Hellenic Agricultural Organization–"Demeter", 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
Interests: cereal genetics and breeding; plant genetic resources; diversity; multi-environment field evaluation; tolerance to abiotic stress; GxE interaction; wide and specific agronomic adaptation; responsiveness to inputs; climate change
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The primary objective of sustainable agriculture is to ensure the fulfilment of current global food and textile demands while safeguarding the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This entails considering the sustainability of resources, maintaining a healthy environment, ensuring economic profitability, and promoting social and economic equity. Agricultural production, being highly dependent on land, water, and other natural resources, is profoundly influenced by weather patterns and climate change. Climate change scenarios predict unfavorable conditions during the growing season, such as water shortages for irrigation, heat waves, droughts, alterations in frost length and timing, changes in air pollution, variations in pest and disease severity, reduced bloom pollination, and soil erosion. These factors have the potential to impact the adaptability of major cultivated species within a specific region, consequently leading to a significant decline in crop production. This Special Issue focuses on the interplay between climate change and sustainable agriculture. It aims to highlight the latest developments in climate-resilient practices related to crop productivity under changing climatic conditions, including new adaptive genetic resources, sustainable management practices for crop growth and pest control, resource conservation, and farmers’ adaptation processes, considering food quality and economic profit. We welcome original research articles, technical articles, reviews, and meta-analyses. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • The impact of climate change on crop production;
  • The impact of climate change on food quality and security;
  • Adaptable plant genetic resources to abiotic and biotic stress;
  • Crop adaptation to climate change;
  • Climate-risk-mitigating tools;
  • Adaptation processes of agriculture to climate change;
  • Precision agriculture, AI, and IoT contributions to crop sustainability under climate change;
  • Circular economy and crop adaptability to climate change;
  • International initiatives/policies for climate-resilient and adaptive agricultural practices.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Fokion Papathanasiou
Dr. Elissavet Ninou
Dr. Ioannis Mylonas
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • sustainable agriculture
  • climate change and agriculture
  • crop physiology
  • plant genetic resources
  • agro-biodiversity
  • abiotic and biotic stress
  • circular economy
  • food security

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

17 pages, 646 KiB  
Article
Combining Zinc Biofortification and Native Trichoderma Inoculation Strategies for Subterranean Clover
by Carlos García-Latorre, Rocío Velázquez, Alejandro Hernández, Paula Tejero and Maria J. Poblaciones
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3730; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093730 - 29 Apr 2024
Viewed by 264
Abstract
Using beneficial microorganisms along with sustainable strategies such as agronomic biofortification offers eco-friendly alternatives to combat climate change in ecosystems like dehesas. This study analyzes the combined effects of four wild Trichoderma spp. isolated from Extremadura, Spain (T. koningiopsis, two T. [...] Read more.
Using beneficial microorganisms along with sustainable strategies such as agronomic biofortification offers eco-friendly alternatives to combat climate change in ecosystems like dehesas. This study analyzes the combined effects of four wild Trichoderma spp. isolated from Extremadura, Spain (T. koningiopsis, two T. gamsii, and T. koningii, with negative and positive controls) and four Zn biofortification treatments (no Zn application; soil application of 5 mg of ZnSO4·7H2O per kg of soil, labeled soil Zn; two foliar applications of 5 mL 0.5% ZnSO4·7H2O, labeled foliar Zn; and soil + foliar combination, labeled SF) on Trifolium subterraneum performance. The combination of T. koningiopsis and T. gamsii with foliar Zn improved plant growth by up to 34.4%. Zinc accumulation was about 30% higher when T. gamsii and T. koningii were applied with SF, and their inoculation resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in ash. Trichoderma spp. affected nodulation differently; both T. gamsii inhibited nodulation by 24%, whereas neither T. koningiopsis nor T. koningii showed differences from the controls. These results highlight the potential of combining beneficial microorganisms with biofortification strategies to address nutrient deficiencies and improve agricultural sustainability. However, the complex interactions between both factors underscore the importance of strain selection and call for further research to optimize application strategies and elucidate underlying mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
17 pages, 1981 KiB  
Article
Influence of Regional Temperature Anomalies on Strawberry Yield: A Study Using Multivariate Copula Analysis
by Poornima Unnikrishnan, Kumaraswamy Ponnambalam and Fakhri Karray
Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3523; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093523 - 23 Apr 2024
Viewed by 316
Abstract
A thorough understanding of the impact of climatic factors on agricultural production is crucial for improving crop models and enhancing predictability of crop prices and yields. Fluctuations in crop yield and price can have significant implications for the market sector and farming community. [...] Read more.
A thorough understanding of the impact of climatic factors on agricultural production is crucial for improving crop models and enhancing predictability of crop prices and yields. Fluctuations in crop yield and price can have significant implications for the market sector and farming community. Given the projected increase in frequency and intensity of extreme events, reliable modelling of cropping patterns becomes essential. Temperature anomalies are expected to play a prominent role in future extreme events, emphasizing the need to comprehend their influence on crop yield. Forecasting extreme yield, which encompasses both the highest and lowest levels of agricultural production within a given time period, along with peak crop prices representing the highest market values, poses greater challenges in forecasting compared to other values. Probability-based predictions, accounting for uncertainty and variability, offer a more accurate approach for extreme value estimation and risk assessment. In this study, we employ a multivariate analysis based on vine copula to explore the interdependencies between temperature anomalies and daily strawberry yield in Santa Maria, California. By considering the maximum and minimum daily yields each month, we observe an increased probability of yield loss with rising temperature anomalies. While we do not explicitly consider the specific impacts of temperature anomalies under individual Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios, our analysis is conducted within the broader context of the current global warming scenario. This allows us to capture the overall anticipated effects of regional temperature anomalies on agriculture. The findings of this study have potential impacts and consequences for understanding the vulnerability of agricultural systems and improving crop model predictions. By enhancing our understanding of the relationships between temperature anomalies and crop yield, we can inform decision-making processes related to the impact of climate change on agriculture. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts in improving agricultural sustainability and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
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14 pages, 293 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Nitrogen Application for Enhanced Barley Resilience: A Comprehensive Study on Drought Stress and Nitrogen Supply for Sustainable Agriculture
by Katarína Olšovská, Oksana Sytar and Peter Kováčik
Sustainability 2024, 16(5), 2016; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16052016 - 29 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 717
Abstract
Soil water scarcity hinders crop productivity globally, emphasizing the imperative for sustainable agriculture. This study investigated the role of nitrogen in alleviating drought stress in barley. Parameters such as relative water content, photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, mesophyll concentration of CO2, total [...] Read more.
Soil water scarcity hinders crop productivity globally, emphasizing the imperative for sustainable agriculture. This study investigated the role of nitrogen in alleviating drought stress in barley. Parameters such as relative water content, photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, mesophyll concentration of CO2, total leaf nitrogen, grain yield, total organic nitrogen content, starch content, and macronutrient concentrations (N, P, K, Ca, Mg) were examined. The optimal grain yield (3.73 t·ha−1) was achieved with 1 g of nitrogen per container (near 200 kg N hectare−1) under ideal moisture conditions. However, under drought stress, nitrogen supply variants (1 g and 2 g per container) exhibited a significant decrease in photosynthetic rate (Pn), NRA activities, and a notable increase in Ci values. Stomatal conductance exhibited a substantial decrease by 84% in the early growth phase, especially with a 2 g dose of nitrogen supply. Nitrogen enhanced crude protein levels, yet both drought stress and nitrogen application reduced grain weight and starch content. Nitrogen effectively improved metabolic processes under drought, particularly in earlier growth stages (e.g., tillering). This research highlights the importance of sustainable agricultural practices related to the growth stage of barley, emphasizing nitrogen optimization to enhance crop resilience in water-scarce environments. The results underscore the intricate interplay between nitrogen fertilization, drought stress, and crop yield, indicating benefits during initial stress exposure but detrimental effects in subsequent growth stages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
19 pages, 3808 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Suitability Area for Maize Production in Poland Related to the Climate Change and Water Stress
by Aleksandra Król-Badziak, Jerzy Kozyra and Stelios Rozakis
Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020852 - 19 Jan 2024
Viewed by 657
Abstract
In this study, we identify the spatial distribution of water deficits in Poland. The analyses considered expert knowledge in soil categories importance in water stress evaluation influencing the climate suitability for maize production using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The Climatic Water Balance [...] Read more.
In this study, we identify the spatial distribution of water deficits in Poland. The analyses considered expert knowledge in soil categories importance in water stress evaluation influencing the climate suitability for maize production using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The Climatic Water Balance was calculated from April to September, for the baseline (BL) period (1981–2010) and two future periods of 2041–2070 (2050s) and 2071–2100 (2080s) using a six-member ensemble of GCM-RCM chain simulations under two representative concentration pathways (RCP) scenarios: low emissions (LE, RCP4.5) and high emissions (HE, RCP8.5). Taking into consideration water deficiency for the BL period, about 81% of Poland proved highly suitable, 18% moderately suitable and 1% marginally suitable for maize cultivation. According to LE and HE scenarios, the area of Poland that is highly suitable for maize production would decrease to 67 and 69% by the 2050s, and to 64 and 44% by the 2080s. By the 2080s, under the HE scenario, rain-fed maize production would become risky, as 21% of Poland would be marginally suitable, while 11% would not be suitable. According to our findings, supplemental irrigation is one of the effective adaptation strategies to maintain the production potential of maize in Poland. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
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16 pages, 3842 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Yields of the Rainfed Potato Crop under Climate Change Scenarios Using the AquaCrop Model in the Peruvian Altiplano
by Jesus Puma-Cahua, Germán Belizario, Wilber Laqui, Roberto Alfaro, Edilberto Huaquisto and Elmer Calizaya
Sustainability 2024, 16(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16010071 - 20 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1236
Abstract
Ensuring global food security and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in rainfed agriculture, are paramount concerns. This research investigates the impacts of climate change on the yield of the potato crop variety Imilla Negra (Solanum tuberosum spp.) under [...] Read more.
Ensuring global food security and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in rainfed agriculture, are paramount concerns. This research investigates the impacts of climate change on the yield of the potato crop variety Imilla Negra (Solanum tuberosum spp.) under the extreme climatic conditions of the Peruvian Altiplano. From the experimentation in six crop plots under a rainfed agricultural system, periodic crop growth parameter measurements were obtained from 2017 to 2018. The results showed a good performance of the AquaCrop model in the calibration and validation, successfully simulating crop growth and yield parameters. Climate projections showed precipitation decreases and temperature and evapotranspiration increases for the representative concentration pathway (RCP), RCP 4.5, and RCP 8.5 scenarios in 2023–2050. A comparison of crop yields between the base period (2006–2021) and the period 2023–2037 showed no significant changes, whereas a more considerable decrease was observed for the period 2038–2050. It is concluded that climate change generates moderate impacts on potato crop yields under the rainfed agricultural system in the Peruvian Altiplano due to the average reduction in precipitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
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17 pages, 4756 KiB  
Article
Circular Mining Wastes Management for Sustainable Production of Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze
by Lyudmila S. Malyukova, Nikita V. Martyushev, Valeriya Valerievna Tynchenko, Viktor V. Kondratiev, Vladimir V. Bukhtoyarov, Vladimir Yu. Konyukhov, Kirill Aleksandrovich Bashmur, Tatyana Aleksandrovna Panfilova and Vladimir Brigida
Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11671; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511671 - 28 Jul 2023
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 1119
Abstract
Mining operations have a significant negative impact on the surrounding ecosystems. The operation of mines and quarries creates a large amount of waste that accumulate and are practically unrecyclable in the environment. The involvement of these wastes in economic activity is an extremely [...] Read more.
Mining operations have a significant negative impact on the surrounding ecosystems. The operation of mines and quarries creates a large amount of waste that accumulate and are practically unrecyclable in the environment. The involvement of these wastes in economic activity is an extremely urgent task. This can make the economy more sustainable and reduce its influence on ecosystems. This work presents the attempts of using quarry wastes as a fertilizer applied for growing tea crops. The novelty of this research involves revealing the quarry wastes as a fertilizer when growing Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze and assessing changes in the productivity of this plant when applying these calcium wastes. The waste of a quarry intended for extracting crushed stone was studied in this article. The composition of the waste was analyzed. Fertilizers used for manuring the soil were prepared based on the waste. Two experimental sites were selected. One of them was a control, where Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze was grown without using fertilizers. Fertilizers obtained from the waste were applied on the second site. The experimental work proceeded for 10 years. When discussing the results, special attention was paid to climatic conditions. This was caused by the need to show that it was the use of the fertilizer that influenced the change in the yield, not the climatic conditions. As a result of using calcium fertilizers based on the waste, the productivity of Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze was increased. The application of the fertilizers based on the quarry wastes was shown to provide an increase in the yield. The possibility of using calcium fertilizers to overcome unfavorable agroclimatic conditions during the tea cultivation was also demonstrated. To assess the climatic impact of applying new fertilizers, three-dimensional modeling in the “gnuplot v.5.4” software was used. As a result, an increase in the average annual precipitation, from 1000 to 1980 mm/year, in the range of the average annual air temperature, from 14 to 16 °C, was found to lead to an increase (when using a new fertilizer) in the yield of Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze up to 4.8 times (from 20 to 95 centner/ha). The results have shown that applying fertilizers based on the quarry wastes is also possible in unfavorable climatic conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability of Agriculture: The Impact of Climate Change on Crops)
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