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Keywords = agroforestry application

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19 pages, 1387 KiB  
Review
Enhancing Agricultural Sustainability by Improving the Efficiency of Lignocellulosic Biomass Utilization in the Ruminant Diet via Solid-State Fermentation with White-Rot Fungi: A Review
by Qi Yan, Osmond Datsomor, Wenhao Zhao, Wenjie Chen, Caixiang Wei, Deshuang Wei, Xin Gao, Chenghuan Qin, Qichao Gu, Caixia Zou and Bo Lin
Microorganisms 2025, 13(7), 1708; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13071708 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
Against the backdrop of the green circular economy, the exploration of reliable and sustainable applications of lignocellulosic biomass (LCBM) has emerged as a critical research frontier. The utilization of LCBM as a ruminant roughage source offers a promising strategy to address two pressing [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of the green circular economy, the exploration of reliable and sustainable applications of lignocellulosic biomass (LCBM) has emerged as a critical research frontier. The utilization of LCBM as a ruminant roughage source offers a promising strategy to address two pressing issues: the “human-animal competition for food” dilemma and the environmental degradation resulting from improper LCBM disposal. However, the high degree of lignification in LCBM significantly restricts its utilization efficiency in ruminant diets. In recent years, microbial pretreatment has gained considerable attention as a viable approach to reduce lignification prior to LCBM application as ruminant feed. White-rot fungi (WRF) have emerged as particularly noteworthy among various microbial agents due to their environmentally benign characteristics and unique lignin degradation selectivity. WRF demonstrates remarkable efficacy in enzymatically breaking down the rigid lignocellulosic matrix (comprising lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose) within LCBM cell walls, thereby reducing lignin content—a largely indigestible component for ruminants—while simultaneously enhancing the nutritional profile through increased protein availability and improved digestibility. Solid-state fermentation mediated by WRF enhances LCBM utilization rates and optimizes its nutritional value for ruminant consumption, thereby contributing to the advancement of sustainable livestock production, agroforestry systems, and global environmental conservation efforts. This review systematically examines recent technological advancements in WRF-mediated solid-state fermentation of LCBM, evaluates its outcomes of nutritional enhancement and animal utilization efficiency, and critically assesses current limitations and future prospects of this innovative approach within the framework of circular bioeconomy principles. Full article
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20 pages, 3538 KiB  
Article
Technology for Boosting Sustainability: A Web App-Based Information Model for Boosting Residual Biomass Recovery
by Tiago Bastos, João Matias, Leonel Nunes and Leonor Teixeira
Land 2025, 14(7), 1332; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14071332 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 367
Abstract
There is currently a growing need for energy, which, combined with climate change, has increased the focus on renewable energies. Among them, biomass energy takes the lion’s share, and this can create forestry pressures or lead to the excessive consumption of resources. To [...] Read more.
There is currently a growing need for energy, which, combined with climate change, has increased the focus on renewable energies. Among them, biomass energy takes the lion’s share, and this can create forestry pressures or lead to the excessive consumption of resources. To mitigate this situation, residual biomass from agroforestry has emerged as a valuable resource, supporting energy transition and mitigating these challenges. However, this biomass is traditionally burned, leading to large fires, as a result of the high logistical costs associated with the lack of information/coordination between those involved in the chain. Therefore, the primary objective of this work is to address this gap by presenting an information management model based on a web application, which aims to increase transparency, integrate stakeholders, and improve logistical decisions. In methodological terms, this study follows the principles of human-centered design, as well as an agile software development methodology. The results include the creation of a new, flexible information management ecosystem, which allows each stakeholder to take on different roles according to their needs in the chain. In addition, lean information management principles have been included in order to reduce waste in information content and flow. Full article
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26 pages, 1929 KiB  
Article
Socio-Economic Determinants of Climate-Smart Agriculture Adoption: A Novel Perspective from Agritourism Farmers in Nigeria
by Ifeanyi Moses Kanu and Lucyna Przezbórska-Skobiej
Sustainability 2025, 17(12), 5521; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17125521 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 622
Abstract
The existing body of scholarly work on the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) in Africa and Nigeria has predominantly concentrated on the experiences and practices of smallholder farmers. While these studies offer valuable insights into the general factors that influence the adoption of [...] Read more.
The existing body of scholarly work on the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) in Africa and Nigeria has predominantly concentrated on the experiences and practices of smallholder farmers. While these studies offer valuable insights into the general factors that influence the adoption of CSA practices, their findings may not be fully applicable to the burgeoning agritourism farmers in Nigeria. This study presents a novel perspective on the socio-economic determinants of CSA adoption among the nascent agritourism farmers in Nigeria. The data were collected through a well-structured questionnaire administered to 436 agritourism farmers in Nigeria. The five mutually inclusive endogenous variables that capture the impact of CSA practices were agroforestry system, improved livestock management, organic farming, crop rotation/intercropping, and farmer field schools. While the agritourism farmers possess moderate experience and education, significant gaps exist in access to critical resources like credit, climate information, extension services, and membership in agritourism cooperatives/associations. The multivariate probit (MVP) model revealed that agritourism farming experience significantly boosts crop rotation/intercropping adoption. Education enhances organic farming uptake but negatively impacts improved livestock management. Similarly, extension services access promotes farmer field schools while discouraging organic farming. Significant negative covariance matrix between CSA practices suggests overlapping demands for limited farm resources. Full article
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32 pages, 2313 KiB  
Review
Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices—Strategies to Conserve and Increase Soil Carbon in Hungary
by Eszter Tóth, Marianna Magyar, Imre Cseresnyés, Márton Dencső, Annamária Laborczi, Gábor Szatmári and Sándor Koós
Land 2025, 14(6), 1206; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14061206 - 4 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 726
Abstract
This review summarizes the role of soil in climate change mitigation and highlights the potential of agricultural practices to support this effort. It provides an overview of methods that enhance soil carbon sequestration and reduce carbon dioxide emissions from soils. After presenting a [...] Read more.
This review summarizes the role of soil in climate change mitigation and highlights the potential of agricultural practices to support this effort. It provides an overview of methods that enhance soil carbon sequestration and reduce carbon dioxide emissions from soils. After presenting a brief global overview, we focus on how the organic carbon stocks of Hungarian agricultural areas have changed over the past decades, underscoring the importance of climate-smart agricultural practices. We examine how these practices—such as cover crops, conservation tillage, fertilization, crop rotation, regenerative agriculture, and agroforestry—affect soil carbon stocks. While the review draws on global research, its primary focus is on practices applicable in Hungary. The effectiveness and feasibility of these climate-smart agricultural practices depend significantly on local climate, geographical location, and soil conditions. Therefore, we thoroughly analyze the applicability and limitations of each practice within the Hungarian context. In addition, we explore temporal trends to assess how the adoption of certain climate-smart practices has evolved over the past one to two decades. Lastly, we discuss the challenges of implementing the presented practices from economic, policy, regulatory, and human perspectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impact of Climate Change on Land and Water Systems)
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20 pages, 1965 KiB  
Article
Short-Term Effects of Wood Biochar on Soil Fertility, Heterotrophic Respiration and Organic Matter Composition
by Rossella Curcio, Raffaele Bilotti, Carmine Lia, Michele Compitiello, Silvana Cangemi, Mariavittoria Verrillo, Riccardo Spaccini and Pierluigi Mazzei
Agriculture 2025, 15(10), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15101091 - 19 May 2025
Viewed by 713
Abstract
Biochar may represent a sustainable and eco-friendly strategy to recycle agroforestry wastes, sequester carbon and improve soil health. With the aim of proving these benefits in a real scenario, we treated several soil parcels with 0 (CTRL), 1 (LOW) and 3 (HIGH) kg/m [...] Read more.
Biochar may represent a sustainable and eco-friendly strategy to recycle agroforestry wastes, sequester carbon and improve soil health. With the aim of proving these benefits in a real scenario, we treated several soil parcels with 0 (CTRL), 1 (LOW) and 3 (HIGH) kg/m2 of wood biochar, in open-field trials. The heterotrophic soil respiration (SR) was monitored continuously for two months via a Closed Dynamic Chamber (CDC) associated with an innovative pilot system, and the most important soil chemical parameters were measured 9 and 54 days after biochar application. Biochar induced an immediate dose-dependent increase in organic matter content and CEC (up to 41.6% and 36.8% more than CTRL, respectively), which tended to slightly and gradually decrease after 54 days. In all cases, biochar induced a more pronounced SR, although the most enhanced microbial response was detected for the LOW parcel (19.3% higher than CTRL). Fennels were grown in treated soils and only LOW microplots gave a significantly better response (weight and size). Finally, NMR, FT-IR and Pyr-GC/MS analyses of LOW SOM extracts revealed a relevant impact on the composition, which was accompanied by a higher content of carbohydrates, indole-based compounds and FAME species correlating with enhanced microbial activity. Our findings demonstrate that the proper biochar dose improves soil fertility by creating an environment favorable to plants and promoting microbial activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
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31 pages, 4028 KiB  
Review
Integrating Green Infrastructure into Sustainable Agriculture to Enhance Soil Health, Biodiversity, and Microclimate Resilience
by Matthew Chidozie Ogwu and Enoch Akwasi Kosoe
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3838; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093838 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1699
Abstract
While green infrastructure (GI) offers numerous benefits, its implementation in low-resource settings remains constrained by limited policy support and upfront costs, highlighting the need for context-sensitive strategies. This paper highlights the value of integrating GI within sustainable agricultural systems and the effectiveness of [...] Read more.
While green infrastructure (GI) offers numerous benefits, its implementation in low-resource settings remains constrained by limited policy support and upfront costs, highlighting the need for context-sensitive strategies. This paper highlights the value of integrating GI within sustainable agricultural systems and the effectiveness of various GI techniques in improving soil microbial communities and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The transition to sustainable agricultural systems requires innovative strategies that balance productivity, environmental conservation, and resilience to climate change. Sustainable agriculture increasingly leverages technological innovations in GI to enhance productivity, biodiversity, and microclimate resilience. Green infrastructure has found direct application in agroforestry, conservation buffers, precision agriculture, soil health monitoring systems, and nature-based solutions such as regenerative soil management. These applications are crucial in enhancing soil health, water retention, and biodiversity, while mitigating microclimatic impacts. Precision agriculture tools, like IoT sensors, drones, and AI-driven analytics, allow farmers to optimize water, nutrient, and pesticide use, boosting yields and efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Simultaneously, advanced soil health monitoring technologies track soil moisture, nutrients, and biological activity in real time, informing practices that maintain long-term soil fertility and carbon sequestration. This integrated approach yields practical on-farm benefits, such as higher crop stability during droughts and enhanced habitats for beneficial species. In conclusion, there is a need for supportive frameworks, like subsidies for GI adoption, application of precision tools, incentives for improving soil microclimate, development of innovative GI programs, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, to encourage farmer adoption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Agricultural Systems)
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27 pages, 1993 KiB  
Review
Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Amazonian Oils and Fats: Promising Species, Equipment, Yields, Composition, and Potential Uses
by Larry Oscar Chañi-Paucar, Julio Cesar Maceda Santivañez, Joselin Paucarchuco Soto, Leif Armando Portal-Cahuana, Carmen Liz Sandra Solis Malaga, Perfecto Chagua-Rodríguez, Julio Cezar Johner Flores and Maria Angela A. Meireles
Processes 2025, 13(4), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13040948 - 23 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1120
Abstract
Amazonian oils and fats (AOFs) have promising composition and bioactive properties, and their processing with supercritical fluids presents several opportunities and challenges for the industry. Our review is dedicated to unraveling the advances in the application of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) to produce [...] Read more.
Amazonian oils and fats (AOFs) have promising composition and bioactive properties, and their processing with supercritical fluids presents several opportunities and challenges for the industry. Our review is dedicated to unraveling the advances in the application of supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) to produce these exceptional oils and fats from Amazonian raw materials, such as fruits, pulps, seeds, and industrial by-products. Our review found that Amazonian plant species produce lipid-rich raw materials and also grow naturally in other regions with similar climates. AOFs present high nutritional value and functional properties due to their content of bioactive compounds. The properties of AOFs are attributed to their major and minor components; lipid molecules represent the major fraction and some fat-soluble compounds, such as tocopherols, phytosterols, terpenes and others, constitute the minor fraction. The production of AOFs by SFE requires properly prepared raw materials and process optimization. Several scientific articles report on the production of AOFs by SFE, but application studies in product development are still scarce. The composition and technological properties of AOFs show a wide spectrum of opportunities for the development of nutritional and functional products. Aspects such as the scaling up of the SFE process, agroforestry or agronomic production, and product development require further studies to promote the AOFs industry in a way that contributes to sustainable development, food security, and the quality of life and health of the Amazonian populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Separation Processes)
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18 pages, 2219 KiB  
Article
Treated Wastewater Affects the Fertility and Geochemistry of Degraded Soil in the Brazilian Semi-Arid Region
by Victor Junior Lima Felix, Salomão de Sousa Medeiros, Rodrigo Santana Macedo, Cristiano dos Santos Sousa, Renato Francisco da Silva Souza, Vânia da Silva Fraga, Alexandre Pereira Bakker, Robson Vinício dos Santos, Bruno de Oliveira Dias and Milton César Costa Campos
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 721; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030721 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 656
Abstract
Projections for the Brazilian semi-arid (BSA) region estimate a reduction in water bodies and an increase in degraded areas. Recovering degraded soils using treated wastewater (TWW) is a strategy to increase the resilience of the local population to these climatic adversities. This study [...] Read more.
Projections for the Brazilian semi-arid (BSA) region estimate a reduction in water bodies and an increase in degraded areas. Recovering degraded soils using treated wastewater (TWW) is a strategy to increase the resilience of the local population to these climatic adversities. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of deficit irrigation with treated effluent on the (geo)chemistry of degraded soil in the BSA. An experiment with the application of TWW was conducted on soil degraded within an agroforestry system. The treatments arranged in randomized block design were WS0.5 (water supply at 0.5 L/plant/week), TE0.5 (treated effluent at 0.5 L/plant/week), and TE1 (treated effluent at 1 L/plant/week). Soil samples were collected (0–15 and 15–30 cm) at the initial condition, after two years of irrigation, and two years after the end of irrigation. Analyses of chemicals and geochemicals were carried out. All treatments increased soil fertility after two years in both layers, with TE1 resulting in higher Ca2+ (0–15 cm: 2.88; 15–30; 3.14; cmolc kg−1), Mg2+ (0–15 cm: 2.13; 15–30; 2.00; cmolc kg−1), and K+ (0–15 cm: 0.11; 15–30; 0.12; cmolc kg−1), generating a residual effect two years post-irrigation suspension and no risk of salinization. However, TE1 and mainly TE0.5 showed an increase in sodium content, making the soil solodic (6–11%). The application of TWW changed the CaO, MgO, and K2O contents of silt fraction, contributing to the availability of Ca, Mg, and K in soils. Future studies should monitor sodium levels and confirm K-bearing phyllosilicate (illitization) after irrigation with TWW. The application of TWW for a short period (two years) and in small volumes (0.5 L/plant/week) affects (geo)chemistry of degraded soil from the BSA. Full article
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24 pages, 1126 KiB  
Review
A Review of Operational Conditions of the Agroforestry Residues Biomethanization for Bioenergy Production Through Solid-State Anaerobic Digestion (SS-AD)
by Zaineb Dhaouefi, Morgan Lecoublet, Salma Taktek, Simon Lafontaine, Yann LeBihan, Flavia Lega Braghiroli, Habib Horchani and Ahmed Koubaa
Energies 2025, 18(6), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18061397 - 12 Mar 2025
Viewed by 820
Abstract
Agroforestry residues are a promising source of organic matter and energy. These organic wastes are often poorly managed by incineration or open-air composting, resulting in the emission of greenhouse gases. Solid-state anaerobic digestion has recently attracted considerable attention to converting organic waste with [...] Read more.
Agroforestry residues are a promising source of organic matter and energy. These organic wastes are often poorly managed by incineration or open-air composting, resulting in the emission of greenhouse gases. Solid-state anaerobic digestion has recently attracted considerable attention to converting organic waste with a high total solids content, such as agroforestry residues, into renewable energy. However, the complex structure of these residues is still a defiance to this technology. Their degradation requires a long period, resulting in low heat and mass transfer. In addition, the process is often inhibited by the accumulation of toxic compounds. An efficient management process has remained under development. Comprehending the challenges faced when treating agroforestry waste is necessary to create practical applications. This review provides essential information for more effective management of complex agricultural and forestry residues using the SS-AD process. It covers the different parameters and experiments that have successfully managed these residues for renewable energy production. Various solutions have been identified to overcome the drawbacks encountered. These include co-digestion, which brings together different residues for better sustainability, and the strategies used to improve energy production from these residues at different levels, involving efficient pretreatments and appropriate operational reactor designs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A: Sustainable Energy)
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17 pages, 5029 KiB  
Article
Quantification of Soil Water Retention Capacity in the Protected Water Management Area Žitný Ostrov (Slovakia)
by Zdena Krnáčová, Mária Barančoková and Martin Labuda
Agriculture 2025, 15(5), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15050563 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1221
Abstract
Water is a crucial resource in agriculture, but climate change has led to more frequent droughts, particularly at the start of the growing season, adversely affecting crop yields. This paper evaluates soil water retention capacity (SWRC) in the Protected Water Management Area Žitný [...] Read more.
Water is a crucial resource in agriculture, but climate change has led to more frequent droughts, particularly at the start of the growing season, adversely affecting crop yields. This paper evaluates soil water retention capacity (SWRC) in the Protected Water Management Area Žitný ostrov, which is home to Slovakia’s most fertile soils and significant groundwater reserves. In our study, we adopted a new methodological approach and developed an algorithm for weighting selected physical parameters from the valued soil-ecological units (VSEUs) database, applicable to larger territorial units. To estimate SWRC, we used an algorithm based on the physical parameters of VSEUs, reclassifying them into 10 categories of cumulative water retention capacity (CWRC) and mapping SWRC in the model area. Most of the area demonstrates high water retention due to groundwater, but these sources are being increasingly depleted. Agriculture, as a significant contributor to groundwater pollution, must adapt to climate change by implementing crop management practices that reduce agrochemical seepage and preserve water supply. Regenerative agriculture and agroforestry, which enhance soil properties, are proposed as viable solutions. Additionally, infrastructure such as dams, ponds, and rainwater harvesting systems, along with the expansion of wetlands, can help capture and store water in areas with lower retention capacity. This study aims to identify critical zones with varying retention capacities and recommends crop rotation adjustments to prevent agrochemical seepage and enhance water retention. These practices are essential for sustaining agriculture while protecting water resources amidst global climate challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Water Management)
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24 pages, 954 KiB  
Review
Towards Climate-Smart Agriculture: Strategies for Sustainable Agricultural Production, Food Security, and Greenhouse Gas Reduction
by Wogene Kabato, Girma Tilahun Getnet, Tamrat Sinore, Attila Nemeth and Zoltán Molnár
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030565 - 25 Feb 2025
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7953
Abstract
Without transformative adaptation strategies, the impact of climate change is projected to reduce global crop yields and increase food insecurity, while rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions further exacerbate the crisis. While agriculture is a major contributor to climate change through unsustainable practices, it [...] Read more.
Without transformative adaptation strategies, the impact of climate change is projected to reduce global crop yields and increase food insecurity, while rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions further exacerbate the crisis. While agriculture is a major contributor to climate change through unsustainable practices, it also offers significant opportunities to mitigate these emissions through the adoption of sustainable practices. This review examines climate-smart agriculture (CSA) as a key strategy for enhancing crop productivity, building climate resilience, and reducing GHG emissions, while emphasizing the need for strategic interventions to accelerate its large-scale implementation for improved food security. The analysis revealed that while nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) has improved in developed countries, the global NUE remains at 55.47%, emphasizing the need for precision nutrient management and integrated soil fertility strategies to enhance productivity and minimize environmental impacts. With 40% of the world’s agricultural land already degraded, sustainability alone is insufficient, necessitating a shift toward regenerative agricultural practices to restore degraded soil and water by improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and increasing carbon sequestration, thus ensuring long-term agricultural resilience. CSA practices, including precision agriculture, regenerative agriculture, biochar application, and agroforestry, improve soil health, enhance food security, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. However, result variability highlights the need for site-specific strategies to optimize benefits. Integrating multiple CSA practices enhances soil health and productivity more effectively than implementing a single practice alone. Widespread adoption faces socio-economic and technological barriers, requiring supportive policies, financial incentives, and capacity-building initiatives. By adopting climate-smart technologies, agriculture can transition toward sustainability, securing global food systems while addressing climate challenges. Full article
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20 pages, 6234 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Multifaceted Aspects of Strawberry Tree (Arbutus unedo L.) Forests in Portugal
by Maria Nazaré Coelho Pinheiro, Filomena Gomes, Goreti Botelho, Ivo Rodrigues, Ruslan Mariychuk and Lyudmyla Symochko
Land 2025, 14(3), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14030468 - 24 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1033
Abstract
This article explores the ecological role of strawberry tree forests (Arbutus unedo L.) in the resilience of Portuguese forest ecosystems and their relationship with plant production as a source of food. It discusses the importance of the strawberry tree in fire combat [...] Read more.
This article explores the ecological role of strawberry tree forests (Arbutus unedo L.) in the resilience of Portuguese forest ecosystems and their relationship with plant production as a source of food. It discusses the importance of the strawberry tree in fire combat and the improvement of agroforestry areas by mitigating erosion and augmenting soil organic matter. The multifunctionality of their fruits, emphasizing their utilization in food and beverage production, is also addressed. Moreover, the socio-economic and cultural significance of fruit production, emphasizing its role in sustainable development, is analyzed. The diversity of beverages (spirits, liquors, and gin) and food products (jams, jellies, etc.) effectively contribute to have a positive social and economic impact on the local populations and tradition maintenance. Moreover, the bioactive compounds in different parts of the plants and fruits have applications in pharmacology and cosmetics. Finally, the valorization of strawberry tree spirits mush waste as a source of natural dyes for textiles is discussed as a promising research topic to be explored in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agroforestry Systems for Biodiversity and Landscape Conservation)
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17 pages, 2534 KiB  
Article
Identifying Barriers to Implementation of Regenerative Agricultural Solutions Through Convergence Research
by Sarah G. McCarthy and Richard R. Rushforth
Land 2025, 14(3), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14030446 - 21 Feb 2025
Viewed by 1043
Abstract
Aridification in the U.S. Southwest has led to tension about conservation and land management strategy. Strain on multi-generational agricultural livelihoods and nearly 150-year-old Colorado River water adjudication necessitates solutions from transdisciplinary partnerships. In this study, farmers and ranchers in a small San Juan [...] Read more.
Aridification in the U.S. Southwest has led to tension about conservation and land management strategy. Strain on multi-generational agricultural livelihoods and nearly 150-year-old Colorado River water adjudication necessitates solutions from transdisciplinary partnerships. In this study, farmers and ranchers in a small San Juan River headwater community of southwestern Colorado engaged in a participatory, convergent research study prioritizing local objectives and policy. Acknowledging the historic and sometimes perceived role of academic institutions as representing urban interests, our goal was to highlight how research can support rural governance. This process involved creating community partnerships, analyzing data, and supporting results distribution to the surveyed population through social media. The survey was designed to support a local waterway management plan. Survey results showed lack of water availability and climate changes were selected by producers as most negatively affecting their operations, and many were extremely interested in agroforestry methods and drought-resistant crop species. Statistical analysis identified that satisfaction with community resources was positively correlated with scale of production, satisfaction with irrigation equipment, and familiarity with water rights. We hope to contribute our framework of a convergent, place-based research design for wider applications in other regions to uncover solutions to resource challenges. Full article
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24 pages, 3039 KiB  
Review
Interplay Between Phytohormones and Sugar Metabolism in Dendrocalamus latiflorus
by Azra Seerat, Muhammad Ahtesham Aslam, Muhammad Talha Rafique, Lingyan Chen and Yushan Zheng
Plants 2025, 14(3), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14030305 - 21 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1538
Abstract
Dendrocalamus latiflorus, a species of giant bamboo, holds significant ecological and economic value. This review delves into the intricate interplay between phytohormones and sugar metabolism in Dendrocalamus latiflorus, emphasizing species-specific mechanisms that enhance its ecological adaptability and rapid growth. By synthesizing [...] Read more.
Dendrocalamus latiflorus, a species of giant bamboo, holds significant ecological and economic value. This review delves into the intricate interplay between phytohormones and sugar metabolism in Dendrocalamus latiflorus, emphasizing species-specific mechanisms that enhance its ecological adaptability and rapid growth. By synthesizing recent research, this work highlights how phytohormones, including auxins, cytokinins, and abscisic acid, regulate sugar metabolism pathways such as glycolysis and starch degradation in response to environmental stimuli. These hormones influence crucial plant processes, including cell division, elongation, stress responses, and sugar metabolism pathways such as glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Geographic variations in these processes are examined, demonstrating their role in environmental adaptation and ecological resilience. For instance, populations in nutrient-rich soils exhibit enhanced cytokinin activity and sugar transport efficiency, while those in water-limited areas display elevated abscisic acid levels, aiding drought tolerance. This targeted focus on D. latiflorus provides novel insights into its potential applications in sustainable forestry and agroforestry systems. By integrating recent advances, this review highlights the critical role of phytohormone–sugar interplay in improving the productivity and stress resilience of D. latiflorus, with implications for agroforestry systems and climate change adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Genetic Architecture of Bamboo Growth and Development)
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38 pages, 12608 KiB  
Review
Extraction of Natural-Based Raw Materials Towards the Production of Sustainable Man-Made Organic Fibres
by Ana Catarina Vale, Liliana Leite, Vânia Pais, João Bessa, Fernando Cunha and Raul Fangueiro
Polymers 2024, 16(24), 3602; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16243602 - 23 Dec 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2616
Abstract
Bioresources have been gaining popularity due to their abundance, renewability, and recyclability. Nevertheless, given their diverse composition and complex hierarchical structures, these bio-based sources must be carefully processed to effectively extract valuable raw polymeric materials suitable for producing man-made organic fibres. This review [...] Read more.
Bioresources have been gaining popularity due to their abundance, renewability, and recyclability. Nevertheless, given their diverse composition and complex hierarchical structures, these bio-based sources must be carefully processed to effectively extract valuable raw polymeric materials suitable for producing man-made organic fibres. This review will first highlight the most relevant bio-based sources, with a particular focus on promising unconventional biomass sources (terrestrial vegetables, aquatic vegetables, fungi, and insects), as well as agroforestry and industrial biowaste (food, paper/wood, and textile). For each source, typical applications and the biopolymers usually extracted will also be outlined. Furthermore, acknowledging the challenging lignocellulosic structure and composition of these sources, an overview of conventional and emerging pre-treatments and extraction methods, namely physical, chemical, physicochemical, and biological methodologies, will also be presented. Additionally, this review aims to explore the applications of the compounds obtained in the production of man-made organic fibres (MMOFs). A brief description of their evolution and their distinct properties will be described, as well as the most prominent commercial MMOFs currently available. Ultimately, this review concludes with future perspectives concerning the pursuit of greener and sustainable polymeric sources, as well as effective extraction processes. The potential and main challenges of implementing these sources in the production of alternative man-made organic fibres for diverse applications will also be highlighted. Full article
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