Search Results (137)

Banana fruits are harvested and then undergo rapid ripening and senescence, sharply limiting their shelf-life and marketability. Myo-inositol (MI) is an important regulator in ethylene production and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation; however, its involvement in the postharvest ripening process of banana remains to be determined. This study found that postharvest application of MI could efficiently delay the fruit ripening and extend the time in which the luster, color, and hardness were maintained in two cultivars with contrasting storage characteristics, storable ‘Brazil’ and unstorable ‘Fenza No. 1’, when stored at room temperature (23 °C ± 2 °C). Moreover, physiological, metabolic, and gene expression analyses indicated that MI application improved MI metabolism and postponed ethylene biosynthesis and cell wall loosening. The decrease in ethylene production was associated with a reduction in the expression of ACS1 and ACO1 genes. MI treatment decreased the expressions of PL1/2, PG, and EXP1/7/8, which may account for the delay in softening. In addition, the application of MI could alleviate ROS-mediated senescence and cell membrane damage by promoting the activities of SOD, POD, and anti-O₂⁻ and decreasing PPO activity. This study shed light on the function of MI in regulating the postharvest ripening and senescence of bananas and provided an efficient strategy for extending shelf-life and reduce losses. Full article

The development of technology has influenced agricultural production and the establishment of the Agriculture 4.0 system in practice. This research is focused on the selection of equipment and machinery suppliers for the needs of the MAMEX Company. When selecting suppliers, an approach based on the application of an intuitionistic fuzzy set for decision-making was used. This approach allows the uncertainty present in decision-making to be incorporated, considered, and, hopefully, reduced in order to make a final decision on which of the observed suppliers is the most suitable for this company. Ten criteria were used that enable the application of sustainability in the supply chain. Eight local suppliers of equipment and machinery were observed with these criteria. The results obtained by applying the SWARA (Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis) method showed that the most important criterion for selecting suppliers is the reliability and quality of equipment and machinery, while the results of the CORASO (COmpromise Ranking from Alternative Solutions) method showed that the SUP2 supplier is the best choice for establishing partnership relations with the MAMEX company. This supplier should help the MAMEX company improve its business and achieve better results in the market. The contribution of this research is to improve the application of intuitionistic fuzzy sets in decision-making, and to emphasize the importance of equipment and machinery in agricultural production in the Agriculture 4.0 system. Full article

Under the context of increasing demand for transparency, efficiency, and trust in food systems, digital traceability is emerging as a key strategy for improving value creation across agri-food supply chains. This study investigates how different governance structures influence the design and effectiveness of digital traceability systems. We develop an analytical framework linking four guiding questions (why, where, how, and who) to traceability performance and apply it to five Italian supply chains (wine, olive oil, cheese, pasta, and dairy) through 28 semi-structured interviews with companies, cooperatives, and technology providers. The results show that governance models shape traceability adoption and function. In captive systems (e.g., wine), traceability ensures compliance but limits flexibility, while in modular or relational systems (e.g., pasta and cheese), it fosters product differentiation and decentralized coordination. Across cases, digital traceability improved certification processes, enhanced consumer communication (e.g., via QR codes), and supported premium positioning. However, upstream–downstream integration remains weak, especially in agricultural stages, due to technical fragmentation and limited interoperability. The diverse experience data from company interviews reveal that only 30% of firms had fully integrated systems, and fixed costs remained largely unaffected, though variable cost reductions and quality improvements were reported in the olive oil and cheese sectors. The study concludes that digital traceability is not only a technical solution but a governance innovation whose success depends on the alignment between technology, actor roles, and institutional arrangements. Future research should explore consumer-side impacts and the role of public policy in fostering inclusive and effective traceability adoption. Full article

Digitalisation in logistics has evolved in the search for continuous improvement and optimised processes. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of digitalisation implemented by companies to improve the automated logistics of cross-border trade in the agricultural sector. The research methodology was generated through a bibliometric analysis, exploring the evolution of the state of the art through the Scopus, WOS and Dimensions databases, in order to select relevant empirical studies on digitalisation and automated logistics, using quality criteria and applying the PRISMA flow chart. The results highlighted that since 2017, there have been signs of increased interest from researchers, with authors such as Zoubek, Kumar and Ghobakhloo standing out. This review revealed how digitalisation contributes to the optimisation of costs and time in the logistics chain. Designing public policies allows for a better integration of technologies such as IoT and AI. Three important blocks were identified that have contributed to the effectiveness of digitalisation in automated logistics: the impact of digitalisation on logistics efficiency and the supply chain, technological integration and automation in cross-border logistics, and governance, policies and social considerations in logistics digitalisation. The conclusions reached were that digitalisation has been a fundamental element in improving logistics and making it autonomous within cross-border trade, allowing technology to become integrated and reducing obstacles in the supply chain through digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Full article

The loss of agricultural production due to climate change and natural disasters has attracted widespread attention. Climate-smart agricultural technologies (CSATs) are attracting attention as a solution to address climate change while achieving sustainable agricultural development. However, in the Chinese context, research on cooperatives’ intention to adopt such technologies is relatively limited. This study investigated the factors influencing the behavioral intentions of Chinese farmers’ cooperatives to adopt CSATs using a behavioral reasoning theory (BRT) framework. A structured questionnaire was administered to 308 participants using purposive sampling techniques. For data analysis, an artificial neural network (ANN) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) complemented the disjointed two-stage partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach to ensure the robustness of the results and provide important practical insights. The results suggest that values (perceived value of government environmental concern, value of openness to change) shape the determinants of and barriers to CSAT adoption by cooperatives, but do not have a direct impact on behavioral intentions. The “determinants” all positively influenced adoption behavioral intentions, with “agricultural extension and advisory service” having the greatest impact on behavioral intentions, followed by “opinion leaders’ recommendation” and “policy support”. Among the “barriers”, only “perceived risk” and behavioral intention were negatively correlated. Behavioral intention to adopt CSATs by cooperatives has a positive effect on willingness to pay, which motivated cooperatives to pay more to acquire the technology. Based on the findings, this study provides theoretical insights for researchers and policy implications for governments, agricultural organizations, policymakers, and agri-technology companies. Full article

The scientific literature and practice have demonstrated that the old linear economic model “extract—produce—use and throw away” is no longer sustainable due to the enormous accumulation of waste and the related production of CO₂. Consequently, there is a need to adopt more sustainable development systems that include recycling resources and producing goods derived from recycled material. The examined literature highlights that SMEs are the least likely to make technological or paradigm changes in favor of sustainable choices due to a lack of resources and managerial competencies. This study presents a mixed-method approach based on qualitative and quantitative analyses. The qualitative analysis aims to identify, in the Italian context, measures that encourage companies to reduce the use of plastics in favor of sustainable alternatives. The quantitative analysis, based on secondary data, aims to identify the characteristics of the firms that benefited from the aid identified in the previous analysis. Thus, this study may support corporate environmental sustainability strategies in Italy by identifying specific characteristics and profiles of those companies willing to obtain public incentives for the use of recycled materials in their business and production processes. The results show that small and micro-sized companies obtained most of the analyzed incentives (almost 76% in terms of number of applications), and the most affected areas by these measures are the agriculture and food industries. Therefore, economic incentives can improve sustainable performance for small and micro-sized enterprises in the wide agri-food sector, while the legislator must adopt different tools, such as bans, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and sustainability reports for medium-large sized companies of other crucial industrial sectors such as construction and automotives. Full article

The demand for agriculture finance and investment for sustainable agriculture development has long been a concern for many years. However, the insufficient integration of the agricultural technology innovation chain and technology transfer impedes the enhancement of collaborative innovation capability in evolving total factor productivity. This paper utilizes Chinese agricultural companies’ investment in the Lancang-Mekong River region as an example to scrutinize key configuration factors fostering the integration of technical collaboration within agricultural industry chains. The results indicated that Chinese agricultural companies can be classified into two categories based on their approach to technical collaboration. The first category is strength-oriented, and companies in this category have the capability to transform technological investments, yielding relatively high returns. They also have optimistic expectations regarding favorable policies in the host country. This category accounts for about one-third of the companies studied. The second category is potential-oriented, in which firms possess the potential for technological investment transformation, with lower investment returns. They require effective contextual management and tax incentives from the host country to thrive. The impact of foreign direct investment decision-making diminishes, introducing new imperatives for the current host country’s market environment and the management of FDI enterprises in the host country. This study makes contributions to advance the exploration of technology’s impact on agricultural companies’ cross-border investment, stipulating new requirements for the transformative development of regional foreign direct investment, particularly for private enterprises. Full article

In planta RNAi or host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) has undergone significant advancements that have rendered it efficient and stable at the transgenerational level in plants for regulating host genes and targeting genes of insect pests and plant pathogens. Similarly, topical RNAi or spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) has garnered considerable attention as an environmentally sustainable, selective, and alternative approach to chemical control of insect pests and plant pathogens. Several biotechnology companies and startups have focused their efforts on RNAi-based solutions for topical application in agriculture. Nevertheless, further technological advancements are required to enhance the efficacy of topical RNAi in agriculture, including improved dsRNA delivery systems, better target gene selection, and addressing biosafety regulatory issues. Herein, this review discusses key advances and bottlenecks in RNAi, and summarizes successful applications of these RNAi-based technologies in agriculture focusing on in planta and topical RNAi to control insect pests and plant pathogens. Furthermore, this review delves into the patenting landscape, biosafety considerations, risk evaluations, and the current regulatory status of RNAi in Latin America. Finally, it explores the contributions of RNAi to plant science, food production, and fostering a more sustainable form of agriculture. Full article

As a staple food and a key component of livestock feed, the growing demand for maize in Indonesia has spurred the expansion of hybrid maize cultivation. However, despite advancements in seed technology and government initiatives to boost maize production, farmers in rural areas continue to face obstacles in accessing high-quality seeds. This study explores the influence of the marketing mix—encompassing product, price, promotion, and distribution—alongside personal factors on farmers’ purchasing decisions for hybrid maize seeds in Soppeng District. Utilizing structural equation modeling (SEM) and survey data from 100 respondents, the findings indicate that product quality and price are the most critical determinants, with farmers prioritizing seed performance and affordability. Distribution also plays a vital role in rural areas, ensuring that farmers can readily access high-quality seeds. At the same time, personal factors such as farming experience and income significantly shape purchasing behavior. Notably, promotional efforts appear to have a limited impact, suggesting that traditional marketing approaches may not be the most effective in this context. Seed companies should focus on product development, refine pricing strategies, and strengthen distribution networks to enhance market penetration. In parallel, policymakers can facilitate access to agricultural credit, invest in rural infrastructure, and promote farmer education programs to improve purchasing power and awareness. Ultimately, adapting marketing strategies to align with local economic and cultural conditions can drive greater adoption of hybrid seeds, boost agricultural productivity, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of rural farming communities. Full article

To achieve deep decarbonization, renewable energy generation must be substantially increased. The technologies with the lowest levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) are land-based photovoltaics (PVs) and wind energy. Agri-PVs offer the potential for dual land use, combining energy generation with agricultural activities. However, the costs of agri-PVs are higher than those of ground-mounted PV. To enhance the competitiveness of agri-PV, we investigate the synergies between agri-PVs and hydrogen electrolysis through process simulation. Additionally, we analyse current technological developments in agri-PVs based on a market analysis of start-up companies. Our results indicate that the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) can be comparable for agri-PVs and ground-mounted PVs due to the somewhat smoother electricity generation for the same installed capacity. The market analysis reveals the emergence of a technology ecosystem that integrates agri-PVs with next-generation agricultural technologies, such as sensors, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) agents, along with localized electricity generation forecasting. The integrated agri-PV and hydrogen generation system has significant global scaling potential for renewable energy generation. Furthermore, it positively impacts local economies and energy resilience, may reduce water scarcity in agriculture, and leverages advancements in AI, robotics, PV, and hydrogen generation technologies. Full article

Pesticide residues still pose a risk to human health. With the rapid development of rapid testing technology, the levels of different types of pesticide residues in agricultural products can be identified in a shorter period; thus, the safety of food can be guaranteed. However, the effectiveness of commercially available testing products has yet to be evaluated. In this study, colloidal gold immunochromatographic qualitative testing products manufactured by 34 companies were tested for their assay performance on Emamectin Benzoate, Isocarbophos, and fipronil with standardized cowpea samples. The results indicated that most of the evaluated products were identified as having ‘passed’. Most pesticide residue rapid test immunoassay products can be considered ideal means for testing certain pesticide residues. However, further evaluation of pesticide residue rapid test immunoassay products is needed, as detection technologies are still developing. Full article

Fairtrade, present in Peru since 1990, has been widely studied for its impact on agri-food production. This research, based on convenience surveys conducted with leaders and members of cooperatives and agri-exporting companies during the 2024 Peruvian Expoalimentaria fair, examines the benefits and challenges faced by producers in their pursuit of sustainable and equitable development. The results were statistically analysed using Cronbach’s alpha, factor analysis, and the ordinal logistic regression model. These methods revealed that not all the dimensions evaluated reached statistical significance. However, the dimensions of agricultural sustainability and social justice emerged as the most significant, driven by the adoption of sustainable technologies and democratic participation in cooperatives. Nonetheless, these dimensions require additional external conditions to ensure well-being, such as market incentives, which did not achieve statistical significance, suggesting the influence of contextual factors not accounted for in the study. This research not only enriches the existing literature but also provides recommendations for implementing Fairtrade initiatives in Peru to promote more equitable and sustainable agricultural development that improves the socio-economic and socio-political conditions of the most disadvantaged producers. Furthermore, this study highlights the need to expand the theoretical development of unexplored variables, such as association models, sustainable practices, and economic growth in rural communities. In this way, it serves as an exploratory foundation for future public policies and strategies in the agri-food sector. Full article

China, the world’s largest egg producer, faces challenges of protein feed shortages and nitrogen pollution from manure. Low-protein diets (LPDs) offer potential solutions, but their adoption by small-scale farmers is uncertain. This study used surveys, meta-analysis, life-cycle assessment, and life-cost analysis to address these gaps. A field survey in Quzhou County (a typical representative of small- and medium-scale farmers in China’s egg farming industry) found that 84% of egg farmers were unfamiliar with LPDs and believed higher protein levels were better. On average, pre-laying and late-laying diets exceeded national LPD recommendations by 0.3% and 0.5% crude protein (CP), respectively. The main barriers to LPD adoption were perceived low quality, lack of veterinary recommendations, and limited technical support. A meta-analysis of 30 studies (published before July 2024) showed that reducing CP by less than 1% did not compromise productivity. Local LPD demonstrations and training improved farmer confidence. Results indicated a 10% reduction in the nitrogen footprint and a 115% increase in earnings for LPD-demonstration farmers. The study suggests a coupled pathway integrating research and technology diffusion, highlighting the need for collaboration among scientists, feed companies, and technical experts to overcome misconceptions and promote LPD adoption. This integrated framework offers valuable insights for sustainable agricultural development in China and other resource-limited countries. Full article

Climate-smart agricultural technology (CSAT) has been recognized as an effective agricultural technology for mitigating or eliminating climate change damages to agricultural production. The adoption of CSAT by Chinese farmers has also increased significantly, driven by the government. However, the range of technologies adopted is very limited to several types, such as piped irrigation, high-yielding seeds, and organic fertilizers. In this study, four reasons for the adoption of CSAT were summarized through a literature review and semi-structured interviews, and antecedents and outcomes were conceptualized through the Behavioral Reasoning Theory (BRT) model and the concept of willingness to pay (WTP). The data from 308 farmers’ cooperatives were analyzed and it was found that three reasons—policy/government support, recommendations from opinion leaders, and extension services—have positive significant impacts on the willingness of farmers’ cooperatives to adopt CSAT. However, perceived usefulness was also observed to have no significant impact on the willingness of farmers’ cooperatives to adopt CSAT because the significant level of the t-value was only 1.767. In addition, the value of openness to change was proved to have significant positive effects on policy/government support, recommendations from opinion leaders, extension services, and perceived usefulness, whereas it had no impact on willingness to adopt CSAT. However, reasons for the adoption (policy/government support, recommendations from opinion leaders, and extension services) were confirmed to have a mediating effect between the value of openness to change and willingness to adopt CSAT, which means that the value of openness to change can indirectly affect the willingness to adopt CSAT by influencing the views of farmers’ cooperatives on the variables of reasons for the adoption of CSAT. More widespread, diverse, and multi-level CSAT adoption requires in-depth publicity and promotion and multi-channel recommendations, both at the government level and at the technology company level. Full article

Agricultural green innovation has become a key driver of China’s agricultural development in the modern era. Maintaining a strong symbiotic relationship is crucial for enhancing awareness and resource allocation capabilities related to green technology innovation within enterprises, ultimately fostering green development. This study utilizes balanced panel data from Chinese agricultural listed companies in the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets between 2011 and 2020 to investigate the impact of symbiotic relationships on green technology innovation capability. Through empirical testing and a moderated mediating effect model, the research explores how organizational green awareness and dynamic capabilities influence this relationship. The findings indicate that a positive symbiotic relationship can significantly enhance green technology innovation in agricultural enterprises by improving their green cognition and dynamic abilities. In terms of the heterogeneity of the promotion of green technology innovation by enterprise symbiosis, the symbiotic relationship has a significant direct promotion effect on both progressive and joint green technology innovation. By confirming the effectiveness of firm symbiosis in promoting green technology innovation, this study provides new practical guidance for developing countries on how to promote the development of green technology innovation. Full article