农业 生态 健康 vors

Intensive agriculture development and achievement to higher profitability has inflicted permanent damage on agroecosystems. Rapid deterioration of structure and functional properties in agroecosystems has intensified the need for research on agroecosystem health and management. To assess the health status of wheat agroecosystems in the agricultural lands of Bandar-e-Turkmen county (Golestan province, Iran), we were used the variables of weed and natural enemies biodiversity, soil health (carbon and organic matter, microbial respiration, earthworm, soil salinity, and acidity), environmental indexes (environmental effects of pesticides (EIQ) and nitrate leaching) and vegetation indexes (RVI, cultivar type, and grain yield). In this study, thematic layers were prepared in ArcGIS and overlayed according to three scenarios. Then final layer was classified into three classes of health. Based on the results, only 8.47% (5 fields) were located in the first health class. These fields were characterized by high grain yield, low weed biodiversity, minimal pesticides use, optimal soil conditions, high RVI, and the presence of earthworms and natural enemies. Also, we found that 42 fields (71.19%) were placed in the second health class. Increase of biodiversity and population of weeds, lower grain yield, and reducing the quantity and quality of soil variables were important factors that reduced the health degree of these fields. Based on the results, 20.34% of the area (12 fields) in the central and western parts of the county was placed in the unhealthy class. It seems that increasing the environmental restrictions, including salinity higher than 6 ds/m, high weed diversity, increasing the consumption of harmful and dangerous pesticides with high environmental impact, and less grain yield than the potential of cultivars, were the main reasons for placing these fields in the unhealthy class. Also, the most important factors of decreasing the health degree of fields, frequency of weeds, increasing consumption of chemical pesticides, low soil organic matter, absence of earthworms, and decreasing grain yield were identified. Generally, management of weeds, implementation of crop rotation, preservation of plant residues on the soil surface, and development of conservation agriculture can help to improve the health indicators of wheat agroecosystems.

ABSTRACT This study aims to produce evidence on the performance of horticultural systems in the peri-urban area of Buenos Aires (Argentina), based on the 10 Elements of Agroecology with an emphasis on soil health. To this end, we performed a survey with the Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE) Step 1, and we measured soil physical, chemical, and biological properties in family farms self-defined as agroecological or conventional. Results reflected overall low transition-to-agroecology indices and poor soil quality in the studied area. However, self-defined agroecological systems have made significant strides toward agroecological transition with higher scores mainly affecting Elements describing management and innovation aspects of the agroecological transition but also those describing the social aspects and the enabling environment. Finally, self-defined agroecological farms exhibit better soil health scores for the indicators aggregates stability, soil organic carbon, and soil basal respiration, than conventional farms. Nevertheless, there is still potential to be exploited and constraints to be overcome to improve the transition to agroecology of horticultural systems in this area. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Ecosystem services (ESs) are increasingly recognized as critical indicators of agricultural sustainability, yet existing assessment frameworks often lack applicability at farm level or fail to account for the synergistic effects of agroecological practices. In response, we developed the APES (Agroecological Practices for Ecosystem Services) framework within the Horizon 2020 RADIANT project. APES is a participatory, practice-based tool designed to assess 22 ecosystem services (eight provisioning and fourteen regulating/supporting) based on the implementation of agroecological practices. The framework was developed through a literature review and refined via participatory workshops with farmers and stakeholders in Greece and Scotland. Provisioning services are assessed through farmer perceptions and crop diversity, while regulating and supporting services are evaluated based on the degree of practice implementation. An illustrative case study on dairy farms in Northern Italy demonstrates the practical application of APES and highlights how ecosystem services emerge from the combination and interaction of multiple strategies within diversified systems. By making ESs visible and actionable, APES supports farmers, researchers, and advisors in driving agroecological transitions and informing more sustainable food system planning.

Soil health is integral to sustainable agroecosystem management. Current monitoring and assessment practices primarily focus on soil physicochemical properties, yet the perspective of multitrophic biodiversity remains underexplored. Here we used environmental DNA (eDNA) technology to monitor multitrophic biodiversity in four typical agroecosystems, and analyzed the species composition and diversity changes in fungi, bacteria and metazoan, and combined with the traditional physicochemical variables to establish a soil health assessment framework centered on biodiversity data. First, eDNA technology detected rich multitrophic biodiversity in four agroecosystems, including 100 phyla, 273 classes, 611 orders, 1,026 families, 1,668 genera and 1,146 species with annotated classification, and the relative sequence abundance of dominant taxa fluctuates tens of times across agroecosystems. Second, significant differences in soil physicochemical variables such as organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN) and available phosphorus (AP) were observed among different agroecosystems, nutrients were higher in cropland and rice paddies, while heavy metals were higher in fish ponds and lotus ponds. Third, biodiversity metrics, including α and β diversity, also showed significant changes across agroecosystems, the soil biota was generally more sensitive to nutrients (e.g., OM, TN or AP), while the fungal communities were mainly affected by heavy metals in October (e.g., Cu and Cr). Finally, we screened 48 sensitive organismal indicators and found significant positive consistency between the developed eDNA indices and the traditional soil quality index (SQI, reaching up to R2 =0.58). In general, this study demonstrated the potential of eDNA technology in soil health assessment and underscored the importance of a multitrophic perspective for efficient monitoring and managing agroecosystems.

Cover crops have emerged as an effective strategy for diversifying agricultural practices, contributing to mitigate climate chance by carbon sequestration, increasing crop yield and even, …

Soil health assessments within managed agroecosystems help to further understand conservation practice efficacy when management practices are altered. In this study, soil health was quantified via the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF) and the Haney Soil Health Test (HSHT) within eight fields (a dryland pasture and seven dryland fields under no-till conditions for various time lengths, cropping system diversity differences, and (in)organic fertilizer use) in Northeastern Colorado. The results across cropping systems were variable when comparing the two frameworks, yet the pasture site received the greatest soil health score (SHS) from both frameworks. Management differences were present for soil physical, chemical, and biological indicators in SMAF, yet the HSHT outcomes show high variability between each field, and the SHS did not align with the understanding of management practices. The HSHT SHSs greatly relied on the single indicator Solvita CO2-C burst (r = 0.82). The HSHT mineralizable N overestimated N availability and was not correlated to the SMAF 28-day N mineralization (R2 < 0.01), and via a pathway analysis, only two SMAF biological indicators (β-glucosidase (BG) and microbial biomass carbon (MBC)) along with bulk density (Bd) correlated to the HSHT. The overall soil health scores between the two frameworks were only moderately correlated (r = 0.48), which was ascribed to the lack of HSHT soil physical and chemical indicators. While the HSHT can still be useful for tracking general trends in soil biological health over time, the SMAF remains the more comprehensive and robust tool for assessing soil health in the studied agroecosystems.

… biodiagnostics of ecological sustainability of agroecosystems based on biological diversity of … This study assesses crop health and soil condition by analyzing agricultural productivity in …

… necessitates sustainable water management for agro-ecosystem health and resilience [31]. … and ensuring future agro-ecosystem health. 3 Industrial Activities and Agro-Ecosystem …

Given environmental, economic, and social costs of unilateral chemical and biotechnological interventions to control pests, there is an urgent need to transition towards a knowledge-intensive holistic approach emphasizing agroecosystem design and management. The focus will be on what makes agroecosystems susceptible and vulnerable to insect pests, pathogens and weeds, in order to design diversified agroecosystems that prevent and suppress insect pest, pathogen and weed problems. We propose a plant health model applicable to agroecosystems that feature biodiversity enhanced designs and soils rich in organic matter and microbial life, managed with low chemical loads. In such diversified farming systems, the general protection of the plant is a consequence of mutualistic above and below ground relationships between plants, insects, and soil microbial communities. From a practical standpoint, the approach involves (a) restoring plant diversity at the landscape and field level, with spatial and temporal crop combinations that deter pests and/or enhance natural enemies and (b) increasing soil organic matter through green or animal manures, compost and other amendments, which enhance antagonists that control soilborne pathogens. Polycultures promote a complex root exudate chemistry which plays an important role in recruitment of plant-beneficial microbes, some of which enhance plants’ innate immune system. Unleashing biotic interactions between plant diversity and increased microbial ecological activity generate conditions for the establishment of a diverse and active beneficial arthropod and microbial community above and below ground, essential for pest/disease regulation.

… the structure of the Adaptive Sustainability Assessment and Monitoring Framework. The framework’… that can enhance the assessment and monitoring of sustainability of agroecosystems. …

Regenerative agriculture prioritizes soil health to enhance ecosystems and crop production. No-tillage organic farming with cover crop rotation improves sustainability. However, …

Agroecological practices are largely recognized as one way of engaging social actors in the co-design and transformation of food systems towards sustainability. Such comprehensive approaches are difficult to evaluate using conventional metrics of agronomic and economic performance, which are only partial judges of the changes they enable. Holistic evaluation frameworks are essential to capture the multidimensional impacts of agroecology and provide evidence for informed decision-making. Identifying methodological gaps remains critical for framework improvement. While systematic reviews on agroecology impacts exist for other regions, Southeast Asia lacks such analysis despite its agricultural importance and unique characteristics. This knowledge gap potentially undermines the effectiveness of agroecological initiatives across Southeast Asia’s diverse agricultural landscapes. In response to this gap, we carried out the first systematic literature review on this topic in Southeast Asia. Our review included 97 papers across diverse disciplines. More than a third of the studies were conducted in Indonesia, with agroforestry accounting for half of the reviewed papers. Comparative land use studies and field experiments each constituted one-third of the research records, with both approaches focused on the plot level. Quasi-experimental evaluations represented merely 5% of the total studies. Half of the studies analyzed impacts of agroecological practices on income, followed by biodiversity and yield; very few assessed socio-cultural indicators. Overall, positive impacts of agroecology were reported, focusing on biodiversity, input efficiency, and soil health. The few studies on integrated crop-livestock farming assessed more diverse impacts, including social values and diets. Key methodological gaps in the holistic evaluation of agroecology in Southeast Asia emerge from this review. Research limitations include predominant plot-level focus, insufficient methodological integration of evaluation approaches, and critically neglected social and cultural dimensions. Additionally, a contextualized definition of agroecology developed and embedded in Southeast Asia farming systems is needed to guide adequate characterization, evaluation and policy formulation.

Soil protists, a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotic microorganisms, play a crucial role in soil ecosystems by regulating microbial populations, enhancing nutrient cycling, and contributing to soil fertility. As microbial predators, they facilitate organic matter decomposition, improve carbon sequestration, and interact with plant roots to promote growth, and their predatory activity suppresses soil-borne plant pathogens, thereby fostering disease-resistant agroecosystems. Beyond their ecological functions, protists serve as bio-indicators of soil health, responding to environmental changes, land use practices, and fertilization regimes. Recent advances in molecular techniques have expanded our understanding of protist diversity and function. However, research on soil protists remains limited, and their potential applications in sustainable agriculture are underexplored. This review examines the diversity, functional roles, and agricultural benefits of soil protists, focusing on their contributions to nutrient availability, plant-microbe interactions, and disease suppression. The recent methodological advancements, research challenges, and future perspectives for integrating protists into soil management strategies is also highlighted in this review. Unlocking the potential of soil protists could provide innovative solutions for improving soil fertility, enhancing crop productivity, and mitigating environmental stressors, ultimately promoting more resilient and eco-friendly agricultural systems.

… health benefits. Using Greece as a case study, this analysis investigated the agroecological … A multi-objective linear programming model assessed farmer preferences for spraying …

… We assessed the sustainability of smallholder dairy farms in the Peruvian Amazon as … (medium or large) using the Tool for Agroecological Performance Evaluation (TAPE). Furthermore, …

In Tunisia, the agricultural sector faces multiple challenges that affect both productivity and farmers’ livelihoods. Although agroecology is increasingly recognized as a pathway to sustainable agriculture, the extent of its adoption by farmers remains unclear. This study assesses the agroecological performance of 50 farms in the Sbikha delegation of the Kairouan governorate (Central Tunisia), using the Tool for Agroecological Performance Evaluation (TAPE), developed by the FAO. This tool assesses how existing cropping systems align with the 10 principles of agroecology and explores their potential for further transition. The results reveal a modest level of agroecological adoption, averaging only 41%. Several factors influence this outcome, including limited farmer knowledge and technical capacity, a weak institutional and organizational framework, and low diversification of cropping systems. Furthermore, three types of farms were identified based on their production systems: farms specializing in fruit trees, farms specializing in cereal and vegetable crops, and farms specializing in olive and vegetable crops. Among these, fruit tree farms exhibit a higher level of agroecological transition, averaging 51%. This increased diversification enhances resilience to market fluctuations. To accelerate the agroecological transition, several key measures should be implemented. Updating land property titles would improve access to credit by enabling farmers to provide the necessary guarantees. Additionally, targeted training programs and awareness-raising initiatives could strengthen technical capacities, thereby facilitating the adoption of agroecological practices. These interventions would enhance farmers’ economic resilience, support sustainable agricultural production, and promote equitable rural development.

The sustainable management of farmland soils is fundamental to addressing the intertwined challenges of food security, environmental degradation, and climate change. This review synthesizes current knowledge on key management practices—crop rotation, no-tillage agriculture, organic amendments (specifically farmyard manure), and soil microbiome regulation—and their synergistic effects on soil health and crop productivity. Crop rotation disrupts pest and disease cycles, enhances nutrient cycling, and stabilizes yields. No-tillage improves soil physical properties, promotes carbon sequestration, and supports more diverse and resilient microbial communities. Organic amendments enrich soil organic matter, stimulate microbial-mediated nutrient cycling, and improve soil fertility over the long term. Targeted management of soil microbiomes further boosts plant stress resistance, nutrient acquisition, and disease suppression, offering powerful avenues for ecosystem resilience. Critically, the integration of these practices amplifies their individual benefits. Systems that combine rotation with no-tillage, or organic amendments with conservation practices, demonstrate superior performance in enhancing soil structure, nutrient dynamics, biological diversity, and carbon storage. Precision agriculture technologies and microbiome-based interventions are poised to refine these integrated systems further, enabling site-specific optimization. Despite technical and operational challenges—such as early-stage yield variability and management complexities—synergistic soil health management offers a clear pathway toward regenerative, climate-resilient agriculture. Future research must focus on understanding microbial functional dynamics, advancing real-time soil health monitoring, and developing holistic, scalable strategies that align productivity goals with ecological stewardship. An integrated, ecosystem-based approach to farmland management is essential to achieve sustainable agricultural development and global carbon neutrality targets.

Agroecology is receiving increasing attention and recognition as a concept for transitions to more sustainable agricultural and food systems. There is however a lack of characterization of agroecology in agricultural and food systems, while integrated and holistic measurements of their sustainability are scarce. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is considered to be a system explicitly based on agroecological principles and practices which shows potential in the face of the sustainability challenges in agriculture and food systems, but its link with agroecology and its holistic sustainability performance have remained understudied. Therefore, we applied the Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE) to 24 Community Supported Agriculture farms in the Flanders region of Belgium in order to characterize agroecology and to assess their multidimensional sustainability performance. Our results show that Community Supported Agriculture farms can be characterized as advanced agroecological systems, highlighted by their high to very high performance on many of the elements of agroecology. Moreover, our results show positive outcomes on several sustainability criteria across environmental, social and economic dimensions such as soil health, presence of natural vegetation and pollinators and ecological management of pests and diseases, as well as dietary diversity and profitability criteria like gross value, added value and net revenue. The integration and role of animals in these agroecosystems and the importance of - and dependence on - labor are however identified as two critical aspects regarding the agroecological transitions and sustainability of Community Supported Agriculture. Our findings emphasize the exemplary role Community Supported Agriculture could play in broader agroecological transitions, which, coupled with their high performance on several sustainability criteria, highlight the potential contribution of Community Supported Agriculture, and by extension of agroecology itself, to more sustainable agricultural and food systems in Flanders and beyond.

The minimum data set (MDS) is widely used for soil health index (SHI) assessment, with the selection of indicators being crucial. However, biological indicators are less frequently used compared to physical and chemical indicators. This study aimed to establish a biologically-centered MDS for assessing soil health in tomato facility agriculture in Ningbo. Using biochemical, microbiological, and nematode data from 60 continuous cropping soils, we identified key indicators for the MDS. Principal component analysis revealed a strong correlation between the MDS and the total data set (TDS), with the final MDS including available phosphorus, electrical conductivity, β-glucosidase, urease, bacterial Chao1 index, bacterial Shannon index, Ralstonia solanacearum, nematode Shannon index, structure index, and channel index. Random forest modeling showed that the predicted SHI had a high fit with the MDS-SHI, with bacterial and nematode Shannon indices being the most influential predictors, emphasizing the critical role of biological communities in maintaining soil health. Furthermore, the study identified three distinct phases in soil health during long-term continuous cropping: healthy (0-10 years), sub-healthy (11-15 years), and recovery (16-20 years), demonstrating the soil's potential for self-recovery. By incorporating biodiversity as a core component, this biologically-focused MDS provides a more comprehensive and precise method for evaluating soil health in facility agriculture. The findings suggest that this MDS could inform future research and applications in similar agricultural systems. Moreover, the results highlight the vital role of biodiversity in agroecosystem stability, suggesting that future soil health assessments should place greater emphasis on biological indicators to better capture the complexity of soil functions.

Agricultural ecosystems managed by farmers provide and receive multiple ecosystem services that are essential to sustain human well‐being. Understanding how agricultural production systems generate agroecosystem services is as important as gaining deeper insights into how farmers perceive and value them to ensure the adoption and implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. We conducted a comprehensive review and in‐depth analysis of existing valuation studies on agroecosystem services to identify potential future research directions. We found two broad research strands of articles: one focusing on ‘General assessment of agroecosystem services’ and the other on ‘Implications for policy making’. The first strand focuses more on individual preferences and monetary values, which might limit a comprehensive assessment. The second strand emphasizes participatory and deliberative techniques to reflect the plurality of values and to provide empirical evidence for policymaking. We recommend to move beyond monetary valuation techniques, and to develop methods that bridge the two strands as a promising avenue for future inter‐ and transdisciplinary research. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Agroecological farming is widely considered to reconcile improved working and living conditions of farmers while promoting social, economic, and ecological sustainability. However, most existing research primarily focuses on relatively narrow trade-offs between workload, economic and ecological outcomes at farm level and overlooks the critical role of contextual factors. This article conducts a critical literature review on the complex nature of agroecological farm work and proposes the holistic concept of sustainable farm work (SFW) in agroecology together with a heuristic evaluation framework. The latter was applied to ten case studies to test its relevance, affirming positive outcomes of agroecology on SFW, such as improved food sovereignty, biodiversity conservation, and social inclusiveness, but also showing trade-offs, including increased workload and potential yield reductions. Further, results show that contextual factors, such as policy support, market regulation, and access to resources, heavily influence the impact of agroecological practices on SFW. This article strongly argues for the importance of a holistic understanding of SFW and its contextualization within multiple socio-ecological system levels. The proposed framework establishes clear relationships between agroecology and SFW. An explicit recognition of these multidimensional relationships is essential for maximizing positive outcomes of agroecology in different contexts and fostering SFW. On a theoretical level, this research concludes that, from a holistic perspective, work is an entry point to studying the potential of agroecology to drive a sustainable agroecological transition in economic, social, and ecological terms.

Scholars have proposed agroecology as a promising method for promoting sustainable and socially just agricultural production systems. However, the extent to which agroecological practices will generate the yields required to ensure sufficient food globally remains unclear. This notion is particularly true in the context of Africa, where agricultural productivity is low but levels of hunger and malnutrition are high. To address this knowledge gap, this article undertakes a systematic review of empirical studies to assess the overall status of agroecology-related research in Africa. Using descriptive and meta-analytical methods, we evaluate empirical evidence on the effect of agroecological practices on land and labour productivity. Our analysis of 501 peer-reviewed articles reveals that the body of agroecology-related literature in Africa has been growing in the past 10 years from approximately 10 to more than 70 studies per annum before and after 2014, respectively, with a strong focus on East Africa, particularly Kenya. The majority of the reviewed studies relate to but do not mention agroecology in the title or abstract. Thus, solely relying on studies that use the term may introduce bias and overlook valuable research contributions to the field. The meta-analysis could identify 39 agronomic studies with 392 observations in which agroecological practices were compared to monocrop systems (defined as plots where similar plants grow alongside each other simultaneously and sequentially from one season to the next) with or without inputs as the control groups. The meta-analysis indicates that agroecological practices are associated with a positive and significant difference in land productivity, compared to that for monocrop systems especially so when monocrops are grown without inputs. However, the size and direction of yield differs by practice, crop, climatic factor, soil property and type of control.

Agroecology is identified as an important solution to increase the sustainability of agricultural and food systems. Despite the increasing number of publications assessing the socio-economic outcomes of agroecology, very few studies have consolidated the scattered results obtained on various case studies. This paper provides new insights by consolidating evidence on the varied socio-economic effects of agroecology across a large number of cases at a global level. To this purpose, we used a rapid review methodology, screening more than 13,000 publications to retrieve evidence on the socio-economic outcomes of the implementation of agroecological practices. The results of the review indicate that (1) agroecological practices are associated more often with positive socio-economic outcomes across the broad range of evaluated metrics (51% positive, 30% negative, 10% neutral, and 9% inconclusive outcomes); (2) the socio-economic metrics associated with financial capital represent the vast majority of evaluated metrics (83% of total) and are affected positively in a large share of cases (53%), due to favourable outcomes on income, revenues, productivity and efficiency; (3) human capital metrics (16%) are associated with a larger number of negative outcomes (46% versus 38% positive), due to higher labour requirements and costs that are however partly compensated by an overall greater number of positive outcomes on labour productivity (55%); and (4) the results vary depending on the agroecological practice assessed; e.g. for agroforestry, we identify 53% positive outcomes while for cropping system diversification 35%. These results indicate an overall favourable potential for farms to benefit from a positive socio-economic performance with the use of agroecological practices. Yet, the magnitude, temporal aspects, and success factors related to these outcomes, as well as the trade-offs between them, and the system-level effects of an agroecological transition are to be further assessed, since they can have an important influence on the performance of individual farms.

The transition of agriculture towards sustainability faces significant obstacles, such as increased demand for food, food insecurity, climate variability, biodiversity loss, and food waste, among others. Moreover, agricultural activities must address ethical practices within sustainable development. The literature frequently mentions two approaches to meet these challenges: agroecology and sustainable agriculture. This study aims to delineate the conceptual boundaries of agroecology and sustainable agriculture while elucidating their interconnection. It seeks to clarify the scope and limitations inherent in these agricultural practices, which is critical given the centrality of sustainable agriculture in agrarian studies. By establishing these boundaries, the research outlines the methodologies to identify the relevant variables and indicators required for effective stakeholder engagement within agricultural systems. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA method. The databases searched were Science Direct, Scopus, Nature, and Google Scholar. The inclusion criteria were (i) written in English or Spanish, (ii) published in a peer-reviewed academic journal, and (iii) related to the conceptualization of agroecology and sustainable agriculture. Publications were selected following the method’s identification, screening, eligibility, and inclusion guidelines. The main distinctions between the concepts are the scale and the scope. Agroecology reveals limitations to achieving impacts on food security and agriculture’s challenges in a large-scale system better suited for rural communities and small farms seeking locally adapted solutions. On the other hand, the literature reveals that it is crucial to adopt a multi-scale systems approach to meet the growing food demands of the global population, for which sustainable agriculture may be more effective.

… agroecological practices to contribute to sustainable development based on evidence from 17 African countries with high levels of food insecurity. Agroecology … agricultural productivity. …

This paper critiques the assumption that capitalist agriculture inherently develops productive forces, highlighting its internal contradictions and questioning its sustainability as a viable agricultural model. Using immanent critique, the paper engages with the capitalist framework on its own terms to demonstrate how its focus on profit maximisation and short-term productivity leads to long-term ecological degradation, social inequities, and the erosion of essential agroecological knowledge. The focus is on Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), a region with immense agricultural potential, regarded as the last frontier of capitalist agricultural development and heavily affected by the ecological crises. The paper argues that agroecology offers a sustainable alternative that prioritises social justice, environmental sustainability, and the empowerment of smallholder farmers. Integrating traditional agroecological knowledge with scientific innovation, agroecology challenges the dominant capitalist model, proposing a more just and resilient agricultural system for SSA. It concludes by emphasising the critical role of social movements in driving the transition to agroecology in the region.

Agroecology has emerged as a fundamental paradigm for developing innovative solutions to major global concerns such as food security, biodiversity loss, and climate change. The core subject of biodiversity conservation emphasizes agroecology’s role in the preservation of native species, pollinators, and beneficial creatures through practices such as agroforestry, cover crops, and decreased chemical inputs. Agroecological principles such as polyculture, crop diversity, and integrated pest control help to improve food security by increasing stability and nutrition. Agroecology encourages carbon sequestration, soil health, and greenhouse gas reductions, resulting in climate-resilient farming systems. The literature review revealed that no article thoroughly discusses all of the critical hitting global challenges, such as food security, biodiversity loss, and climate change, in a single study that can be addressed using agroecological principles. This review article attempts to make a connection between numerous challenges that may be solved using agroecological techniques in order to facilitate sustainable growth while protecting the environment. The study examines the benefits of incorporating agroecological methodologies into sustainable agriculture, with an emphasis on increasing agroecosystem resilience, improving socioeconomic circumstances for smallholder farmers, rural livelihoods, and local communities, and contributing to climate change mitigation. It provides a complete review of agroecological concepts and their numerous advantages, making it an excellent guide for policymakers, academics, and practitioners who is working to build a sustainable and resilient global food system. Agroecology emerges as a light of hope, boosting agricultural output while also protecting the environment, with the ultimate goal of achieving harmonious cohabitation between mankind and the natural world.

Agroecology, as an interdisciplinary field, integrates ecological principles into agricultural systems to promote sustainability. This paper examines the pivotal role of agroecological approaches in fostering sustainable agriculture and rural development. Initially concentrated on enhancing crop productivity and resilience, agroecology has evolved to encompass broader dimensions, including environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability. By emphasizing the sustainable use of resources and adopting diverse strategies, agroecology addresses contemporary challenges in agricultural production. This review synthesizes existing literature on the fundamental concepts and principles of agroecology, highlighting its profound implications for sustainable agriculture and rural development. By exploring agroecological approaches at various scales, from plot-level interventions to systemic changes within the food system, this paper underscores the critical linkage between agroecology and the pursuit of sustainable agricultural practices and rural prosperity.

Agroecology is increasingly recognized as a pathway for transforming agrifood systems and advancing progress toward the SDGs. Yet, large-scale, cross-context evidence on its multidimensional performance as framed holistically by the FAO’s 10 Elements remains limited.The Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE) and the Land Degradation Surveillance Framework (LDSF) were applied on 839 farming households in Benin, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Madagascar. Correlation analysis was used to quantify relationship between agroecological integration and multidimensional performance key drivers were identified through regression analysis.Higher levels of agroecological integration are significantly positively correlated with higher performance across economic, environmental and social domains. This implies that the environmental benefits of agroecology do not come at the cost of reduced productivity and profitability and suggests that agroecology significantly contributes to sustainable development in Africa. Sociocultural Elements of Agroecology, including human and social values, culture and food traditions, and knowledge co-creation, emerged as key drivers of agroecological transitions and multidimensional performance. However, barriers remain, such as high input costs, insecure land tenure (particularly for women), and low youth engagement in farming. The study emphasizes the need for enabling policies that support agroecological business models, secure tenure rights, and foster equitable, labor-saving innovations. By providing multi-country evidence, it underscores the value of systemic, holistic food system assessments to guide agroecological transitions.

… and harmonize environmental, sustainability, and productivity goals. Agroecology can be viewed as a component of a more comprehensive strategy for sustainable intensification that …

The science of ecology is incorporated into farm development and operation through agroecological techniques. A paradigm shift in agriculture is essential to combat hunger, adapt to climate trade, and mitigate environmental degradation. By doing this, researchers may further acknowledge the interdependence of farmed and nonfarmed landscapes and the variety of products and services that robust ecosystems offer, including resilience, nutrient cycling, and pest control, all of which can help sustain yields. Agro-ecology relies heavily on the knowledge and experience of farmers since it fosters independence and decreases reliance on costly outside resources. The concepts of sustainable intensification and agroecology are examined in this paper as additional strategies to address the global issue of increasing food production while lowering environmental impacts. Also, this study evaluates how effectively these approaches boost crop yields, lower environmental costs, and build resilience to climate unpredictability by closely examining existing programs, integrated management strategies, and field experiments. Supporting the findings is a comparative table that shows several techniques of sustainable intensification and how they have an effect on yields and environmental costs. In order to expand resilient, sustainable, and equitable food systems, a discussion of the necessity of a paradigm shift towards agroecological strategies is addressed in the paper's conclusion.

This study coupled precision agriculture with agroecology to improve the agricultural systems’ sustainability in a climate variability context, characterized by fewer rainy days and more extreme events. A three-year comparative analysis was carried out in a durum wheat rotation, divided into two plots of 2.5 ha each, one managed with conventional methods (CP, sunflower as intermediate crop) and another managed with an agroecological approach (AE, field bean as green manure crop), featuring prescription maps for site-specific mineral fertilization. The statistical analysis of durum wheat parameters, soil characteristics, and economic variables was conducted alongside the examination of climatic data. In AE soil, the exchangeable calcium was statistically different from CP soil (6044 mg kg−1 and 5660 mg kg−1, respectively). Cation exchange capacity was significantly higher in AE (32.7 meq 100 g−1), compared to CP (30.9 meq 100 g−1). In AE, wheat yield (2.36 t ha−1) was higher than in CP (2.07 t ha−1), despite extreme rainfall causing flooding in some parts of the AE plot. The economic balance was only 6% in favor of CP (EUR + 2157), confirming the AE approach’s resilience (EUR + 2027), despite the higher costs of cover cropping and site-specific fertilization. The novelty of integration between “smartish” precision agriculture and agroecology allows for sustainable management.

Farmers are increasingly faced with challenges such as climate change, population growth, and the need for sustainable food production, while simultaneously having to address the environmental impacts of conventional agriculture. Agroecology has emerged as a holistic and sustainable approach to agriculture, integrating environmental, social, and economic principles. This study investigates the role of digital tools, including decision support systems (DSSs), in supporting agroecological transitions. Through a literature review and analysis of case studies, this paper examines the benefits and challenges associated with the adoption of digital tools in agroecology, highlighting their potential to promote sustainable practices such as soil and water management, pest control, and efficient resource use. The findings indicate that while digital solutions offer significant potential to enhance productivity and improve environmental outcomes, their adoption remains limited due to barriers such as low digital literacy, lack of infrastructure, and concerns about effectiveness in real-world farming conditions. Despite these challenges, digital solutions offer significant potential to enhance productivity, improve environmental outcomes, and support farmers’ decision-making. To comprehensively understand their benefits, a holistic approach is necessary, combining digital tools with hands-on training, policy support, and ongoing research. This paper highlights the role of digital tools in agroecology, explores their benefits and challenges, and discusses the need for continued research to assess their long-term potential in terms of the agroecological transition.

Agroecosystem function is related to the positioning of the agroecosystem and its connectivity relationship with the surrounding landscape. Herein three methodologies are presented, which allow assessment of the links between agroecosystems and the surrounding matrix, yielding information for promoting patterns and mechanisms which foster biodiversity and the provision of multiple ecosystem services such as biological pest control, as well as energy flows and material exchanges. Through the use of 11 indicators a methodology (Assessment of Beneficial Insect Habitat Suitability-ABIHS) was applied in two northern California vineyards to determine whether each agrolandscape provided suitable environmental opportunities to sponsor biological insect pest control. The Main Agroecological Structure [MAS] applied in Chilean family farms, elucidates some of the relationships between farms and their biophysical environment, generating data to analyze the links between agroecosystem landscapes, management practices, and insect diversity in family farms. Agrarian metabolism (AM) applied in Spanish agrolandscapes, quantifies the biophysical and energy flows in agricultural systems testing whether such flows are capable of reproducing and/or improving fund elements such as soil, biodiversity, and landscape vegetation, in successive production cycles. The three methodologies provide key information for the design of sustainable agroecosystems in the context of an agroecological transition.

… Despite the growing recognition of agroecology as a promising … underlying tea farmers’ agroecological practices within the Wuyishan … between agricultural sustainability and biodiversity …

In recent years, agroecology has gained prominence as one of the innovative approaches to agriculture that could positively contribute to achieving sustainable food systems. As a transdisciplinary science, agroecology could benefit from the contribution of socio-economic sciences. This study aims to give an overview of how scholars have approached socio-economic issues in the field of agroecology. A scoping review was conducted by using the PRISMA-ScR method, searching both Scopus and Web of Sciences databases. The selected body of literature (183 articles) provides an overview of the key socio-economic dimensions analysed in the literature on agroecology and the results achieved by scholars. The findings allowed drawing the research gaps and the future research directions in this domain.

… Agroecological systems optimize the use of local and renewable resources and knowledge. … control while ensuring productivity. The conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity …

ABSTRACT The process of change taking place in most countries’ agricultural and food systems has seen a revival of alternative forms of farming, like agroecology, aiming to replace the environmentally destructive practices of conventional agriculture and produce real and nutritious food. This case study analyzes the process of transition of a small-scale farm located in Costa Rica from conventional farming (using heavy machinery, synthetic chemicals, and fossil fuels) to a carefully integrated, resilient, sustainable and self-sustaining organic, agro-socio-ecological system. It uses UN FAO’s (Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations) Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE) with 10 agroecological elements (diversity, synergies, efficiency, recycling, resilience, culture and food traditions, co-creation and sharing of knowledge, human and social values, circular and solidarity economy, and responsible governance) to assess the farm’s ecological, social and economic performance. Results show that this farm is strong in efficiency, culture and food tradition, co-creation and sharing of knowledge, diversity, and resilience. The average score of the 10 elements is 92.29%, indicating an advanced level of transition to agroecology of the farm. While this score is high, the farm has encountered certain challenges, namely lack of consistent financial and policy support from the government, costly procedures for products and processes certification, and lack of awareness about the benefits of this sustainable farming system. The study recommends that more transdisciplinary research and comparative studies between conventional and agroecological farming are needed to move more agrifood systems toward sustainability. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT Agroecology’s multidimensional theorization and transdisciplinary practices position it as a promising paradigm for addressing challenges within the industrial food system and therefore contributing to the achievement of the SDGs. Despite the growing research of agroecology across geographical contexts, there is limited study about the ways in which agroecology is directly and indirectly linked to the SDGs. This scoping review categorizes carefully screened agroecology studies in light of agroecology’s three dimensions and critically examines their geographical and thematic foci when illustrating the connections with each of the SDGs. Our research finds that most studies examine agroecology in the context of the Global South and take a hybrid perspective that describes agroecology as science, practice and/or movement, highlighting its multidiensional nature. Yet, there are limited studies that examine the connection with certain SDGs (i.e. SDG 9, 10, 14 and 16). Moreover, instead of stating explicitly how agroecology contributes to SDGs, existing studies often provide passing reference to the SDGs and do not use strong empirical evidence to illustrate the contribution. The research points out new spaces for agroecology studies by highlighting the need for research that directly connects agroecology to the SDGs with strong empirical evidence. We argue that policymakers and practitioners need to integrate agroecology into development strategies to address systemic inequalities within food systems and advance sustainability goals.

… on real-time feedback, farmers can optimize crop productivity while simultaneously promoting environmental sustainability. The utilization of these advanced technologies enables a …

… Furthermore, by reducing reliance on long-distance transport and global supply chains, urban food production could be more resilient than conventional agriculture 22 to disasters, food …

… ecosystem health. This article explores the role of biodiversity in agricultural resilience, examines … for integrating biodiversity into agricultural systems to protect ecosystem services. By …

… influences rural ecological resilience, accompanied by a … and negatively impacts rural ecological resilience, with a … support for agriculture also influence rural ecological resilience …

… The overall resilience of cultivated land ecosystem was … was the primary problem in regional resilience. Based on these … the cultivated land ecosystem resilience and provides reference …

The general aim of this paper is to analyse theoretical perspectives on ecotourism, co-production, and co-management, seeking to understand how these approaches interact and promote the sustainability of natural food resources and sustainable management practices. The methodology adopts a qualitative approach with exploratory and descriptive objectives, utilising a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to identify and examine the key studies related to the subject. The main findings indicate that ecotourism fosters biodiversity conservation, which sustains local food practices and provides significant economic benefits for local communities through co-production and co-management between stakeholders. The community emerges as a principal active resource in planning and management processes by creating opportunities for environmental education; integrating local knowledge and experiences to develop a unique, multidimensional adaptive capacity; and promoting system regulation. Moreover, the analysis of the examined works highlights the importance of environmental education programmes, flexible institutions open to dialogue with the community, and the equitable distribution of benefits. Lastly, a framework is presented that depicts the relationship among ecotourism, co-production, co-management, and socio-ecological resilience, based on five premises. This framework proposes a holistic approach to achieving socio-ecological resilience in food practices and the sustainable management of resources.

Using the Haken model to explore the synergistic evolutionary characteristics and competition trends of agricultural resilience and eco‐efficiency can establish a theoretical foundation for achieving high‐quality and sustainable agricultural development. The traditional Haken model cannot address the issue of the lack of directionality in synergy values, but incorporating the tendency theory of the coupling coordination model into the Haken model can solve this problem, thus establishing propensity synergistic Haken model to give values directionality. Established a more comprehensive evaluation system for China's agricultural resilience. Measuring agricultural system resilience in China's 31 provinces and cities from 2001 to 2021. The synergistic values between agricultural resilience and eco‐efficiency were measured by the improved Haken model. Results show that: (1) Agricultural resilience exhibits a stable upward trend, but the overall level is low. Regional differences have been increasing over time. (2) Eco‐efficiency is the sequential covariate of synergistic evolution by the two systems. The overall synergy level between agricultural system resilience and eco‐efficiency is higher. (3) Considering the “propensity synergistic,” the overall change from low‐level benign synergy to high‐level benign synergy between agricultural resilience and eco‐efficiency in China. (4) The propensity synergy Haken model can compensate for the directionality‐lack problem of the traditional Haken model synergy value.

Drought is an increasingly critical global challenge, significantly impacting agricultural productivity, food security, and ecosystem stability. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of drought events, innovative strategies are essential to enhance plant resilience and sustain agricultural systems. This review explores the vital role of beneficial microbes in conferring drought tolerance, focusing on Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), mycorrhizal fungi, endophytes, actinomycetes, and cyanobacteria. These microorganisms mitigate drought stress through diverse mechanisms, including osmotic adjustment, enhancement of root architecture, modulation of phytohormones, induction of antioxidant defenses, and regulation of stress-responsive gene expression. Ecological and agricultural innovations leveraging these beneficial microbes have demonstrated significant potential in bolstering drought resilience. Strategies such as soil microbiome engineering, bioaugmentation, and the integration of microbial synergies within pest management frameworks enhance ecosystem resilience and agricultural sustainability. Additionally, advancements in agricultural practices, including seed coating, soil amendments, the development of microbial consortia, and precision agriculture technologies, have validated the effectiveness and scalability of microbial interventions in diverse farming systems. Despite promising advancements, several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of microbial solutions. Environmental variability can affect microbial performance, necessitating the development of robust and adaptable strains. Scale-up and commercialization hurdles, economic constraints, and regulatory and safety considerations also pose significant barriers. Furthermore, the complex interactions between microbes, plants, and their environments require a deeper understanding to optimize microbial benefits consistently. Future research should focus on integrating cutting-edge technologies such as genomics, synthetic biology, and precision agriculture to refine and enhance microbial interventions. Collaborative efforts among academia, industry, and government are essential to bridge the gap between research and practical implementation. By addressing these challenges and harnessing microbial innovations, it is possible to develop resilient and sustainable agricultural systems capable of thriving in an increasingly water-scarce world.

Agriculture faces growing challenges from climate change, pest pressures, and market instability. Crop diversification offers a sustainable strategy to enhance resilience and reduce the risks of monoculture. This review examines crop diversification as a response to these challenges, with a focus on its applications in sustainable agriculture, risk management, and food security. Strategies such as spatial, temporal, genetic, and intercropping diversification enhance soil health, improve pest management, and boost resilience to climate variability. The review highlights key principles, including ecological resilience, risk distribution, and resource optimization. By adopting diverse crops, farmers can mitigate soil degradation, reduce pest outbreaks, and stabilize incomes. Successful case studies from various regions, such as integrated rice‐fish farming and agroforestry, demonstrate how diversification can improve productivity and sustainability. However, challenges remain, such as knowledge gaps, market access issues, and policy limitations. The review concludes with recommendations for future research and policy interventions, stressing the need for tailored diversification strategies, better support systems, and further exploration of innovative practices. This overview underscores the potential of crop diversification to build resilient, sustainable agricultural systems while addressing global food security concerns.

In the face of aggravating environmental challenges, achieving food security while preserving natural ecosystems, the present-day agriculture demands transformative strategies. Intercropping, an age old yet under-recognized practice, offers a promising direction towards sustainable agriculture by elevating biodiversity, optimizing resource use and delivering critical ecosystem services. Intercropping contributes to climate change mitigation by improving soil health and carbon sequestration, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and long-term soil fertility restoration through nutrient cycling. Intercropping system aligns with agroecology principles, integrating biodiversity and ecosystem services into agricultural systems. Intercropping enhances provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural ecosystem services through multiple mechanisms. One of its key advantages is the promotion of biodiversity, which is essential for agroecosystem sustainability. By increasing species richness, intercropping nurtures pollinators, beneficial insects, and microbial communities, ultimately boosting productivity and resilience against environmental stressors. Moreover, intercropping represents an ecologically and economically viable alternative to conventional farming, confronting critical global concerns such as soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change. However, challenges such as choosing compatible crops, planning planting patterns, and coordinating harvest schedules pose huge tasks. Research findings on crop combinations, climate-resilient systems, mechanization tools, and region-specific information can help to overcome these issues. The review article focuses on the alignment of an intercropping system with ecosystem services targeting agricultural sustainability.

… on ecosystems and suggests that reducing agrochemical usage, implementing integrated pest management, and promoting organic farming can help mitigate its environmental impact. …

Organic farming, which is deeply rooted in traditional agricultural practices, has witnessed a profound evolution over the last century. Transitioning from a grassroots initiative resisting the industrialization of agriculture to a global industry, organic farming now plays a pivotal role in addressing contemporary challenges related to environmental health, sustainability, and food safety. Despite the growing consumer demand for organic products and market access, organic farming has its challenges. This paper discusses the origin and evolution of organic farming with an emphasis on different types of organic fertilizers, benefits, and challenges. Nutrient variability and the slow-release nature of organic fertilizer often do not meet crop demands and can substantially reduce yield. Some organic fertilizers, like manure and biosolids, can provide a higher yield benefit, but there are environmental and health risks associated with them. Weed and pest management in organic farming can be labor-intensive and increase costs. Inefficient planning of organic farming and rapid transition can also create food insecurity. This paper also gives a brief account of the current certification process for organic fertilizers and their technicalities. It showcases how the holistic approach of organic farming extends beyond production, including strategies like reducing food waste and building self-sufficient farming communities. These practices contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system, reducing environmental impacts and supporting local economies. Future technological innovations, especially in precision agriculture and bio-physicochemical models, can help in formulating targeted organic fertilizers.

… Further, we interlink soil health with various substrate quality and quantity for mushroom farming, and review the role of mushroom farming in environment and food and nutritional …

Sustainable farming practices aim to produce agricultural products at a low environmental cost, ensuring food availability for future generations. These approaches combine the production of agricultural crops and livestock for site-specific uses, with an emphasis on long-term objectives including satisfying the food supply worldwide, improving the environment, making the most efficient use of resources and boosting the welfare of farmers and society as a whole. Sustainability in farming is mostly dependent on soil health, which is the soil’s capacity to function within ecological and land-use boundaries. It enhances general wellness, maintains the purity of the air and water, and supports biological productivity. The depletion of soil functions brought about by modern agricultural intensification has an impact on ecosystem services and long-term productivity. The goal of sustainable farming is to raise fertility and organic matter in the soil. Key practices include carbon farming, conservation agriculture, integrated pest management (IPM), and precision farming. In order to support sustainable crop production, these techniques improve soil fertility, structure, and biodiversity. Going forward, research should concentrate on developing novel approaches to tackle the issues of climate change and global food security.

Grazing livestock derive most of their mineral requirements from foraging. The presence of toxic elements in soils has become a significant concern for food safety and ecosystem services. Understanding the mineral content profiles in soil and forage is crucial for assessing animal health, predicting potential transfers of minerals or heavy metals into the food-chain, and assessing threats to the environment and human health. In this study, Na, Mg, P, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb were measured to determine the mineral status of three different pasture-based farming systems (with grazing sheep livestock) in a Spanish region of significant economic importance. A risk assessment evaluation of animal, environmental, and human health was performed on soil, forage, feed, serum, milk, and wool. Notably, traces of Pb, and As were identified in pastures in all farms. Our calculation of pollution indices revealed moderate levels of contamination by various elements, including Co, Cu, Zn, Se, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb. The two farms with more intense agrosystem practices showed a significant potential ecological risk, characterized by high soil levels of Hg and Cd. Animals from these farms also had high concentrations of these metals in wool. Although the target Hazard Quotient derived from milk consumption suggests that dairy products from this area are safe for consumption for adults, only milk from a dehesa farm (mix of woodland and pastureland) was free of potential health concerns related to Pb exposure. Our assessment of mineral profiles reveals a cohesive relationship between soil quality and derived animal products, particularly of the Merino sheep breeding and farming system. The results reveal the importance of adopting and reinforcing strategies to preserve dehesas as a sustainable and environmentally friendly agrosystem in the western Mediterranean region.

… However, others have proven that these antibiotics intensive use and their massive quantity in solid and liquid farming waste have caused many environmental risks. This review paper …

Soil health is essential for sustainable agricultural operations, as it supports farm production and ecosystem services. The adoption of sustainable agriculture practices such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, and crop rotation provides significant benefits for both crop productivity and environmental sustainability. These practices can increase soil biodiversity, nutrient cycling, and organic matter, which increase the resilience of agroecosystems. This narrative review synthesizes the insights of the soil health practices adoption literature, with a focus on common farming practices that can improve soil health and enhance crop yields, reviewing the results of various approaches and pointing out the challenges and opportunities for implementing sustainable agriculture on a larger scale. This paper discusses the effects of various tillage and cropping system approaches on soil health, including no-till and conventional tillage systems, crop rotation, cover cropping, cultivator combinations, and fertilizer application. This study found that conservation tillage is more beneficial to soil health than conventional tillage—which is still debated among scientists and farmers—and that different tillage methods interact differently. In contrast, agricultural yields increase more with intercropping, crop rotation, and cover crops than monocropping. For maintaining soil fertility, this study shows that agricultural yields could be increased by implementing zero tillage. This review identifies the most suitable farming practices for improving soil health while boosting crop production with minimal negative impact on the soil. It also highlights the benefits of these practices in maintaining soil quality.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a ubiquitous public health challenge, with its prevalence in human, animal, and environmental interfaces posing significant concerns. This study aimed to characterize and detect the zoonotic linkages of MRSA within the cow-environment-human interfaces in dairy farms to address the One Health perspective. A comprehensive investigation, involving 636 samples (an equal number of raw milk and cow nasal swab samples, along with varying numbers of human nasal swab and environmental samples), revealed an overall MRSA prevalence of 13.4% (n = 271/636). Notably, environmental samples exhibited the highest prevalence (19.3%), emphasizing the potential role of farm surroundings in MRSA transmission, while the lowest prevalence was found in raw milk at 11.8% (n = 31/263). The prevalence in cow nasal swabs and human nasal swabs was 13.3% (n = 35/263) and 15.1% (n = 8/53), respectively. Multiplex PCR analysis revealed the presence of different Staphylococcal enterotoxin (SEa, SEb, SEc, and SEd), and exfoliative toxin-producing genes (Eta, Etb) within the MRSA isolates underlining their potential to induce public health threats. All MRSA isolates exhibited complete resistance to Oxacillin (100%) and Amoxicillin (100%), while the highest sensitivity was observed for Vancomycin (85.8%). Furthermore, these MRSA strains demonstrated varying degrees of resistance to other commonly used antimicrobial drugs, including Cefoxitin (75.3%), Ceftarolin (71.2%), Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim (63.5%), Ciprofloxacin (60%), and Gentamicin (49.5%). Detection of MRSA in cow, human, and environmental samples within the same farm vicinity highlights the risk of zoonotic transmission of MRSA from cows to humans through environmental interfaces. Phylogenetic analysis of the mecA gene in MRSA isolates from all sources within the same farm revealed a high similarity index (>84%) among them suggesting a shared evolutionary origin. Moreover, the MRSA isolates from milk samples showed a close evolutionary relationship with isolates from Kenya and Brazil, while the isolates from humans and the environment displayed noticeable resemblance to isolates from several Asian countries. The findings emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts under the One Health framework to address this multifaceted issue and ensure the safety of our food supply and public health.

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is now an extremely important safety and health issue. Much of the research on this phenomenon focuses on its clinical aspects, while current findings confirm that it is only one of a number of potential sources of bacteria and genes responsible for drug resistance. There are many indications that one of the main contributors to this issue is currently agriculture and that this applies virtually worldwide. Increased awareness of issues of rational use of antibiotics in husbandry practice entails increased interest in phenomena related to the spread of antibiotic resistance in the environment, their specifics, and the scale of the existing threat. This work, based on current research, analyzed selected aspects of the use of antibiotics in animal production, the presence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms in farm animals and in waste from agricultural production, in particular from animal breeding farms, the determinants of antibiotic resistance in farming practices and the potential threats related to emissions and spread of antibiotic resistance factors in the environment, including the possibility of transfer of resistant bacteria and resistance genes to humans.

In recent years, the Canadian dairy sector has faced escalating challenges due to its significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane. This paper critically examines a spectrum of innovative techniques aimed at mitigating methane emissions within this sector, scrutinizing their cost-effectiveness, efficiency, compatibility with animal welfare standards, and adherence to both existing and prospective Canadian environmental legislations. The discourse commences with an exhaustive overview of contemporary methane reduction methodologies pertinent to dairy farming, followed by a rigorous analysis of their economic feasibility. This includes a detailed cost-benefit analysis, juxtaposed with the efficiency and technological advancements these techniques embody. A pivotal aspect of this examination is the alignment of animal welfare with emission reduction objectives, ensuring that strategies employed do not compromise the health and well-being of dairy cattle. Furthermore, the paper delves into the legislative landscape of Canada, evaluating the congruence of these techniques with current environmental laws and anticipating future regulatory shifts. Performance indicators for emission reduction are critically assessed, establishing benchmarks tailored to the Canadian context. This is complemented by an exploration of the market potential of these innovations, including factors influencing their adoption and scalability in the market. The analysis culminates with a synthesis of case studies and best practices within Canada, offering insights into successful implementations and drawing lessons for future endeavors. This comprehensive approach serves not only to address the immediate environmental and health impacts associated with dairy farming emissions but also contributes significantly to the overarching goal of sustainable development in the agricultural sector.

Organic farming, characterized by the exclusion of synthetic fertilizers and chemical pesticides, represents a sustainable approach to agriculture. This study investigates the impact of organic farming practices on soil health, focusing on the proliferation and activity of soil microorganisms. Natural fertilizers such as farmyard manure, poultry litter, composts, green manures, and oil-free cakes were utilized to enhance soil fertility. The research reveals that these practices significantly improve soil health by fostering a robust microbiome, which is essential to the cycling of nutrients and overall health of the soil vitality. The safety and nutritional benefits of organic food products were also evaluated. Comparative analysis with conventionally grown foods indicates that organic produce contains lower levels of harmful residues such as pesticides, nitrates, metals, and antibiotics. This reduction in contaminants mitigates potential risks to human health associated with conventional farming practices. Furthermore, organic foods are found to be richer in essential nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants, thereby offering superior nutritional value. The economic implications of organic farming were explored, highlighting its potential to enhance the economic viability of small-scale farmers. With increasing consumer awareness and demand for organic products, farmers practicing organic methods can command higher prices for their produce, thereby improving their economic sustainability and resilience. In conclusion, organic farming emerges as an environmentally friendly and economically viable alternative to conventional agriculture. By promoting soil health, reducing chemical residues in food, and meeting consumer demand for nutritious products, organic farming offers a pathway towards sustainable agricultural practices.

The discovery of penicillin and other antibiotics has revolutionized modern medicine. However, overreliance on antibiotics has led to a global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis, jeopardizing progress made over the past decades. Antimicrobial resistance poses a critical public health challenge, affecting humans, animals, and the environment. The AMR challenge is particularly dire in Nigeria owing to the extensive antibiotic use across various sectors and ineffective antimicrobial stewardship programs. This narrative review summarizes the literature from January 2018 to December 2023, focusing on the current trends in AMR in Nigeria, including knowledge of antimicrobial usage, prescription patterns, and adherence to guidelines for humans, animals, and their shared environments. High antibiotic resistance patterns were detected in isolates recovered from healthcare settings, food supply chains, companion animals, wildlife, and the environment. Factors exacerbating the AMR crisis in Nigeria include poor regulation of antimicrobial agents, improper empirical prescriptions, inadequate infection prevention practices, arbitrary and prophylactic use of antibiotics in food-producing animals, environmental contamination, and insufficient surveillance programs. To effectively mitigate this crisis, it is essential to adopt the One Health approach, which prioritizes collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including governmental agencies, healthcare institutions, veterinary experts, farmers, and the scientific community, to address the convergence of human, animal, and environmental health. These efforts will promote transdisciplinary surveillance approaches and the establishment of policies aimed at ameliorating the impact of AMR on the Nigerian economy, the well-being of its population, and diverse ecosystems.

Agrochemicals play a vital role in modern agriculture, aiding in crop protection and enhancing yields. However, their use can have significant environmental implications, particularly regarding soil and water quality. This review explores the geologic considerations in agrochemical use, focusing on impact assessment and guidelines for environmentally safe farming practices. The geologic factors influencing agrochemical use are multifaceted. Soil composition and structure affect the retention and leaching of agrochemicals, impacting their availability to crops and potential for environmental contamination. Geological processes, such as erosion and sedimentation, can transport agrochemicals to water bodies, leading to water pollution. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing the potential impacts of agrochemical use on the environment. Impact assessment of agrochemical use involves evaluating its effects on soil, water, and ecosystems. Techniques such as soil and water sampling, geophysical surveys, and remote sensing can help assess the distribution and movement of agrochemicals in the environment. This information is essential for developing guidelines and management practices to minimize environmental impacts. Guidelines for environmentally safe farming practices aim to reduce the use of agrochemicals and mitigate their impacts. Practices such as integrated pest management, conservation tillage, and precision agriculture can help minimize the need for agrochemicals and enhance soil health. Additionally, proper storage, handling, and disposal of agrochemicals are essential to prevent environmental contamination. In conclusion, geologic considerations play a crucial role in assessing the impact of agrochemical use on the environment and developing guidelines for environmentally safe farming practices. By integrating geologic factors into agricultural management practices, farmers can reduce the environmental footprint of agrochemical use and ensure the long-term sustainability of agricultural systems.

The history, principles and perspectives of nature farming, as advocated by Mokichi Okada, a Japanese philosopher in 1935, are described. According to Okada, the principles of nature farming must fulfill five requirements: (1) produce safe and nutritious food that ensures good health; (2) be economically and spiritually beneficial to both producers and consumers; (3) be sustainable and easily practiced; (4) conserve and protect the environment; and (5) produce sufficient food of high quality for an expanding world population. In practice, both synthetic chemicals and raw waste from animals without treatment are prohibited as fertilizers or soil amendments for crop production. Composts from plant materials are recommended. This is the main difference with the principles of organic farming, which allows the use of animal manure, untreated or composted. Although there are strong 2requirements for nature farming principles, it is one of the most idealistic and practicable farming methods to ensure human health and environmental protection. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="https://getinfo@haworthpressinc.com">getinfo@haworthpressinc.com &lt;Website: https://www.HaworthPress.com&gt;]

… on chemical inputs not only bolsters environmental health but also contributes to safer agricultural practices, leading to a more sustainable future for farming and food production. …

The development of modern agriculture has significantly contributed to improving global food security and safety, alleviating poverty, and enhancing human health and livelihoods. However, the rapid advancement of modern agriculture has also brought about various challenges that limit its sustainable development. This commentary aims to discuss these issues through the One Health lens, and provide valuable insights for balancing modern agricultural activities with the need to protect and promote the health of all the sectors. This commentary explores the multifaceted impacts of modern agriculture on social development, as well as the associated various health challenges and environmental impacts within the One Health framework. Key issues include ecosystem degradation, increased risk of interspecies disease transmission like zoonoses, reverse zoonoses, and vector-borne diseases, and the escalated threat of antimicrobial resistance due to intensified agricultural production and increased antimicrobial use. To address these challenges, this commentary outlines potential solutions anchored in the development and implementation of modern technologies and good agricultural practices, such as precision farming, integrated pest management, biosecurity measures, vaccination programs, as well as surveillance and early detection of health risks. Good agricultural practices supported by scientific and technological advancements are essential for aligning productivity with the One Health vision, ensuring the health and resilience of all the sectors. Enhancing stakeholder education, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and providing supportive policies and infrastructure for farmers to adopt sustainable practices are crucial for the long-term viability of agrifood systems. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations plays a pivotal role in guiding this sustainable transformation through the One Health approach.

The One Health approach, which seeks to balance the health of people, animals, and ecosystems, is gaining increasing recognition. Although in 2022 the One Health High-Level Expert Panel refined its definition to explicitly include plant health, concrete integration of crop health into One Health strategies remains underdeveloped. As a result, the agricultural domain's contributions to the environmental chemical load are still insufficiently addressed. In addition, there is a general lack of studies aimed at estimating the relative contribution of each different One Health domain (i.e., the human, the animal, and the plant one) to this phenomenon. This discussion paper examines the current availability of data on main chemical outputs across these domains, specifically focusing on agrochemical and drug/medicine use in agriculture, animal, and human health. However, data collection proved challenging due to inconsistencies and gaps across sectors, making direct comparisons of environmental burdens difficult to establish. Instead, this study provides an indication of trends while primarily highlighting severe gaps in data availability and the unanswered research questions that arise from them. It also emphasizes the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration across all three domains. In particular, the integration of scholars, professionals, and experts in agriculture, forestry, livestock and environmental sciences is crucial to optimizing future One Health initiatives, especially in the context of crop and plant health.

The industrialization of animal agriculture has undoubtedly contributed to the improvement of human well-being by increasing the efficiency of food animal production. At the same time, it has also drastically impacted the natural environment and human society. The One Health initiative emphasizes the interdependency of the health of ecosystems, animals, and humans. In this paper, we discuss some of the most profound consequences of animal agriculture practices from a One Health perspective. More specifically, we focus on impacts to host-microbe interactions by elaborating on how modern animal agriculture affects zoonotic infections, specifically those of bacterial origin, and the concomitant emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A key question underlying these deeply interconnected issues is how to better prevent, monitor, and manage infections in animal agriculture. To address this, we outline approaches to mitigate the impacts of agricultural bacterial zoonoses and AMR, including the development of novel treatments as well as non-drug approaches comprising integrated surveillance programs and policy and education regarding agricultural practices and antimicrobial stewardship. Finally, we touch upon additional major environmental and health factors impacted by animal agriculture within the One Health context, including animal welfare, food security, food safety, and climate change. Charting how these issues are interwoven to comprise the complex web of animal agriculture's broad impacts on One Health will allow for the development of concerted, multidisciplinary interventions which are truly necessary to tackle these issues from a One Health perspective.

Proponents of both the One Health and Planetary Health paradigms have acknowledged that current methods of agricultural food production are driving many environmental changes with negative human health consequences, including climate change, deforestation, and the emergence of zoonotic disease and antimicrobial resistance. Currently, the training of human health, veterinary, and public health professionals typically does not include aspects of soil health. Much of the resultant discussion in One Health and Planetary Health circles regarding interventions to address the health impact of agricultural practices has focused on measures such as advocating for dietary change toward plant based diets and increasing food safety, biosecurity, disease surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship. A greater understanding of soil health and its relationship to agricultural practices could prove foundational to many of the problems that the One Health and Planetary Health perspectives aim to address, including antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic disease emergence, food security, and climate change. A consequent global focus on the health of soils offers a promise of specific opportunities for preventive interventions and a greater convergence between the One Health and Planetary Health approaches.

Abstract Antibiotic resistance (AR) is a complex, multifaceted global health issue that poses a serious threat to livestock, humans, and the surrounding environment. It entails several elements and numerous potential transmission routes and vehicles that contribute to its development and spread, making it a challenging issue to address. AR is regarded as an One Health issue, as it has been found that livestock, human, and environmental components, all three domains are interconnected, opening up channels for transmission of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB). AR has turned out to be a critical problem mainly because of the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, with the anticipation of 10 million annual AR-associated deaths by 2050. The fact that infectious diseases induced by ARB are no longer treatable with antibiotics foreshadows an uncertain future in the context of health care. Hence, the One Health approach should be emphasized to reduce the impact of AR on livestock, humans, and the environment, ensuring the longevity of the efficacy of both current and prospective antibiotics.

The application of antimicrobials in aquaculture primarily aims to prevent and treat bacterial infections in fish, but their inappropriate use may result in the emergence of zoonotic antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the subsequent transmission of resistant strains to humans via food consumption. The aquatic environment serves as a potential reservoir for resistant bacteria, providing an ideal breeding ground for development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The mutual inter-connection of intensive fish-farming systems with terrestrial environments, the food processing industry and human population creates pathways for the transmission of resistant bacteria, exacerbating the problem further. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the most effective and available risk mitigation strategies to tackle AMR in aquaculture, based on the One Health (OH) concept. The stringent antimicrobial use guidelines, promoting disease control methods like enhanced farm biosecurity measures and vaccinations, alternatives to antibiotics (ABs) (prebiotics, probiotics, immunostimulants, essential oils (EOs), peptides and phage therapy), feeding practices, genetics, monitoring water quality, and improving wastewater treatment, rather than applying excessive use of antimicrobials, can effectively prevent the development of AMR and release of resistant bacteria into the environment and food. The contribution of the environment to AMR development traditionally receives less attention, and, therefore, environmental aspects should be included more prominently in OH efforts to predict, detect and prevent the risks to health. This is of particular importance for low and middle-income countries with a lack of integration of the national AMR action plans (NAPs) with the aquaculture-producing environment. Integrated control of AMR in fisheries based on the OH approach can contribute to substantial decrease in resistance, and such is the case in Asia, where in aquaculture, the percentage of antimicrobial compounds with resistance exceeding 50% (P50) decreased from 52% to 22% within the period of the previous two decades.

Although the effects of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are most obvious at clinical treatment failure, AMR evolution, transmission, and dispersal happen largely in environmental settings, for example within farms, waterways, livestock, and wildlife. We argue that systems-thinking, One Health approaches are crucial for tackling AMR, by understanding and predicting how anthropogenic activities interact within environmental subsystems, to drive AMR emergence and transmission. Innovative computational methods integrating big data streams (eg, from clinical, agricultural, and environmental monitoring) will accelerate our understanding of AMR, supporting decision making. There are challenges to accessing, integrating, synthesising, and interpreting such complex, multidimensional, heterogeneous datasets, including the lack of specific metrics to quantify anthropogenic AMR. Moreover, data confidentiality, geopolitical and cultural variation, surveillance gaps, and science funding cause biases, uncertainty, and gaps in AMR data and metadata. Combining systems-thinking with modelling will allow exploration, scaling-up, and extrapolation of existing data. This combination will provide vital understanding of the dynamic movement and transmission of AMR within and among environmental subsystems, and its effects across the greater system. Consequently, strategies for slowing down AMR dissemination can be modelled and compared for efficacy and cost-effectiveness.

Abstract Background: The interdisciplinary One Health (OH) approach recognizes that human, animal, and environmental health are all interconnected. Its ultimate goal is to promote optimal health for all through the exploration of these relationships. Antibiotic resistance (AR) is a public health challenge that has been primarily addressed within the context of human health and clinical settings. However, it has become increasingly evident that antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) that confer resistance are transmitted and circulated within humans, animals, and the environment. Therefore, to effectively address this issue, antibiotic resistance must also be considered an environmental and livestock/wildlife problem. Objective: This review was carried out to provide a broad overview of the existence of ARB and ARGs in One Health settings. Methods: Relevant studies that placed emphasis on ARB and ARGs were reviewed and key findings were accessed that illustrate the importance of One Health as a measure to tackle growing public and environmental threats. Results: In this review, we delve into the complex interplay of the three components of OH in relation to ARB and ARGs. Antibiotics used in animal husbandry and plants to promote growth, treat, and prevent infectious diseases lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in animals. These bacteria are transmitted from animals to humans through food and environmental exposure. The environment plays a critical role in the circulation and persistence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes, posing a significant threat to human and animal health. This article also highlights how ARGs are spread in the environment through the transfer of genetic material between bacteria. This transfer can occur naturally or through human activities such as the use of antibiotics in agriculture and waste management practices. Conclusion: It is important to integrate the One Health approach into the public health system to effectively tackle the emergence and spread of ARB and genes that code for resistance to different antibiotics.

Selenium (Se) biofortification in crops has emerged as a promising strategy to address global Se deficiencies and enhance both agricultural productivity and human health. Increasing the Se content of crops through biofortification improves their resilience to abiotic and biotic stresses and boosts their nutritional value. This benefits human health by protecting against diseases such as cancer, infections and allergies when the crops are consumed. Furthermore, Se‐biofortified non‐edible plant parts have significant potential in biomedicine and could enhance the value of agricultural byproducts. This strategy contributes to a circular economy by reducing waste, improving resource efficiency and providing sustainable alternatives to synthetic pharmaceuticals and supplements. Ultimately, it supports environmental and economic sustainability. Nevertheless, Se biofortification faces several challenges, particularly with regard to standardization, acceptance by consumers and farmers, and the regulatory and economic frameworks that govern its implementation. Effectively addressing these issues is crucial to unlocking the full potential of Se biofortification. This could significantly improve global nutritional outcomes, reduce the prevalence of Se deficiency‐related health conditions, support the prevention and treatment of diseases and promote sustainable agricultural practices that align with long‐term food security goals. In this context, future perspectives highlight the promising integration of biofortified residues generated by Se biofortification with emerging technologies such as biorefineries and artificial intelligence. These residues could be efficiently valorized and repurposed through biorefinery processes optimized by artificial intelligence, contributing to a circular economy and sustainable resource management. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

… However, concerns about planetary health … the planetary health risks associated with urban agriculture. The literature review identified five distinct health risks related to urban agriculture…

The urgent need to address both human and environmental health crises has brought attention to the role of food systems in driving climate change, biodiversity loss, and diet-related diseases. This paper explores the intersection of Food is Medicine (FIM) and regenerative agriculture (RA) as an emerging approach with the potential to help address the interconnected challenges of human and ecological health within healthcare and food systems. FIM programs, such as produce prescriptions and medically tailored meals, aim to improve health outcomes by increasing access to nutritious foods and promoting nutrition equity. RA, focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs, offers more sustainable agricultural practices that can align with FIM goals. This paper highlights key opportunities, recent policy developments, and evidence gaps, calling for concerted efforts to clearly define RA practices and foster collaboration between community, healthcare, agriculture, and policy stakeholders. Strengthening these interconnections could lead to more resilient food systems and improved health outcomes at both individual and population levels.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical threat to human, animal, and environmental health, challenging global efforts to maintain sustainable ecosystems and public health systems. In this review, the complex, cross-disciplinary issues of AMR are explored within the framework of planetary health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human and veterinary medicine with broader environmental and social systems. Specifically, it addresses the social, economic, environmental, and health dimensions of AMR under the planetary health framework. The social aspects consider how public awareness, education, and healthcare practices shape antimicrobial use (AMU) and resistance patterns. The economic impact evaluates the cost burdens of AMR, including healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and the implications for the livestock and food production industries. The environmental dimension highlights the role of pharmaceutical waste, agricultural runoff, and industrial pollution in contributing to the spread of antimicrobials and resistant pathogens in ecosystems. To illustrate these challenges, a comprehensive literature review using the PubMed and Web of Science databases was conducted, identifying 91 relevant articles on planetary health and AMR. In this review, the knowledge from these studies and additional references is integrated to provide a holistic overview of the AMR crisis. By applying the four pillars of planetary health—social, economic, environmental, and health knowledge—in this manuscript, the necessity is underscored of collaborative strategies across human and veterinary medicine to combat AMR. Ultimately, this synergistic approach aims to shape the policies and practices that safeguard public health, protect ecosystems, and promote a sustainable future by implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs and encouraging prudent AMU.

… the planetary boundary and One Health frameworks, which provide guidance for global and national mitigation efforts to safeguard planetary health … manure use in agriculture for better …

Microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, and protists, are essential to life on Earth and the functioning of the biosphere. Here, we discuss the key roles of microorganisms in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting recent and emerging advances in microbial research and technology that can facilitate our transition toward a sustainable future. Given the central role of microorganisms in the biochemical processing of elements, synthesizing new materials, supporting human health, and facilitating life in managed and natural landscapes, microbial research and technologies are directly or indirectly relevant for achieving each of the SDGs. More importantly, the ubiquitous and global role of microbes means that they present new opportunities for synergistically accelerating progress toward multiple sustainability goals. By effectively managing microbial health, we can achieve solutions that address multiple sustainability targets ranging from climate and human health to food and energy production. Emerging international policy frameworks should reflect the vital importance of microorganisms in achieving a sustainable future.

… concepts like Planetary Health, One Health, and EcoHealth. … to facilitate coordinated health interventions for people and … the concepts of Planetary Health, One Health, and EcoHealth, …

The holobiome is an interconnected network of microbial ecosystems spanning soil, plants, animals, humans, and the environment. Microbial interactions drive nutrient cycling, pathogen suppression, and climate regulation. Soil microbiomes facilitate carbon sequestration and enhance soil fertility, while marine microbiomes contribute to carbon capture and climate stability. However, industrial agriculture, extensive herbicide use, antibiotic overuse, and climate change threaten microbial diversity, leading to ecosystem and health disruptions. Probiotic interventions help to restore microbial balance. In human health, probiotics support gut microbiota diversity, reduce inflammation, and regulate metabolism. In agriculture, soil probiotics enhance microbial diversity, improve nutrient cycling, and degrade contaminants, increasing crop yields and soil health. Case studies show that microbial inoculants effectively remediate degraded soils and enhance nutrient uptake. Artificial intelligence is transforming microbiome research by enabling predictive modeling, precision probiotic design, and microbial consortia optimization. Interdisciplinary collaboration and supportive policies are essential for restoring microbial equilibria, ensuring ecosystem resilience, and promoting long-term sustainability. The integration of artificial intelligence, clinical research, and sustainable practices is crucial for advancing holobiome science. The holobiome framework underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address global challenges, bridging environmental sustainability, agriculture, and public health for a resilient future.

Shifting to dietary patterns rich in plants and low in animal-source foods could substantially lower emissions from the food sector while reducing the global burden of non-communicable diseases. The EAT-Lancet Commission proposed the planetary health diet (PHD) to emphasise plant-forward diets and set global targets to guide an urgently needed food-system transformation. However, the PHD's meat-reduction approach has attracted criticism and prompted debate on the potential micronutrient shortfalls of the plant-forward dietary approach. Since the planet simply cannot sustain human diets defaulting towards animal-based solutions, the objective of this Viewpoint is to provide recommendations that address the shortfalls of the PHD, with an emphasis on plant-based sourcing of food. Using a socioecological approach, along with an Integrative Sustainability Framework to evaluate dietary guidelines, in this Viewpoint we recommend seven key thematic areas for further development of the PHD. These themes relate to the bioavailability of micronutrients from plant-based foods, the inclusion of indigenous foods and practices, fortification and supplementation, cultural inclusiveness, and gender-based differences, a broader perspective on processed foods, and strengthening the concept by integrating the One Health approach.

Effective governance is essential to transform food systems and achieve the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals 2030. Different political ideologies and paradigms inhibit or drive social change movements. This study examined how food systems governance has been described. Thereafter, we reviewed graphic frameworks and models to develop a typology for civil society actors to catalyze social change movements to transform food systems for people and the planet. The scoping review involved (1) formulating research questions; (2) developing a search strategy to identify evidence from four English-language electronic databases and reports, 2010–2023; and (3–4) selecting, analyzing, and synthesizing evidence into a narrative review. Results yielded 5715 records, and 36 sources were selected that described and depicted graphic frameworks and models examined for purpose, scale, political ideology, paradigm, discourse, principles, governance, and democracy. Evidence was used to develop a graphic food systems governance typology with distinct political ideologies (i.e., neoliberal, reformist, progressive, radical); paradigms (i.e., maintain, reform, transition, transform); discourses (i.e., food enterprise, food security, food justice, food sovereignty); types of governance (i.e., multistakeholder, shared, self); and democracy (i.e., representative, participatory, deliberative). This proof-of-concept typology could be applied to examine how change agents use advocacy and activism to strengthen governance for sustainable diets, regenerative food systems, and planetary health.

Planetary health definitions are clear about advancing human well-being, aiming for the highest standard of health worldwide. Planetary health recognizes human health is dependent on natural systems; however, framing human health as the central consideration of planetary health may risk rendering invisible the non-human species that are central to the viability of ecosystem services and human survival. This review seeks to discover and describe opportunities for advancing discourses on planetary health justice through exploration of the interspecies justice literature. This rapid review of forty-three articles asks the following: how does health arise in interspecies justice literature and how can interspecies justice advance broader conceptualizations of justice in planetary health? Results suggest opportunities for epistemological expansion within planetary health to include consideration of other species, ecosystems, and relationships between them. Examining what health is for more-than-humans, reflecting on how we understand these interdependencies, and advocating for decolonizing planetary health study and practice are critical to growing planetary health justice.

… The health of the planet and its people are at risk. The deterioration of the global commons… sustainable and resilient human and planetary health and thriving in the Anthropocene. We …

Abstract Soil provides multiple, diverse functions, with these underpinning both planetary and human health. For planetary health, soil contributes to multiple critical processes, including through biomass production, by regulating the carbon pool, providing a habitat for 25% of global biodiversity, cycling the nutrients upon which terrestrial systems depend, and cycling water. Soil also underpins human health; humans use soil to provide 98.8% of our food and sustain our nutrition, regulate pathogens, and supply medicines. However, humans have tended to focus on soil almost solely for producing biomass (food, fiber, and energy) through intensive agriculture, and this narrow focus now causes rapid soil degradation, including through loss of soil organic matter, erosion, and salinization. This degradation directly harms planetary health and reduces the ability of soil to support health of future human generations. We argue that a healthy soil is a soil that is multifunctional and is capable of underpinning human and planetary health. Using this definition, a broad conceptual framework is provided for quantifying soil health, with such an approach enabling a shift in the way that we think about, plan, and manage systems to ensure ongoing planetary and human health. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Planetary health is an emerging field that emphasises that humans depend on a healthy Earth for survival and, conversely, that the sustainability of Earth systems is dependent on human behaviours. In response to member demands for resources to support teaching and learning related to planetary health, the Consortium of Universities for Global Health (CUGH) convened a working group to develop a set of planetary health learning objectives (PHLOs) that would complement the existing ten CUGH global health learning objectives. The eight PHLOs feature Earth system changes, planetary boundaries, and climate change science; ecological systems and One Health; human health outcomes; risk assessment, vulnerability, and resilience; policy, governance, and laws (including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement); roles and responsibilities of governments, businesses, civil society organisations, other institutions, communities, and individuals for mitigation, adaptation, conservation, restoration, and sustainability; environmental ethics, human rights, and climate justice; and environmental literacy and communication. Educators who use the PHLOs as a foundation for teaching, curriculum design, and programme development related to the health-environment nexus will equip learners with a knowledge of planetary health science, interventions, and communication that is essential for future global health professionals.

Soil health is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, serving as the foundation for crop productivity, environmental resilience, and long-term ecosystem stability. Contemporary agricultural methods, characterized by excessive pesticide and fertilizer application, monoculture, and intensive tillage, have resulted in extensive soil degradation, requiring novel strategies to restore and sustain soil functionality. This review examined sustainable practices to enhance soil health and improve crop quality in modern agricultural systems. Preserving soil’s physical, chemical, and biological characteristics is essential for its health, achievable through various agronomic strategies. Practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, no-till or carbon farming, conservation agriculture (CA), and the use of organic amendments were explored for their ability to restore the soil structure, increase organic matter, and promote biodiversity. These initiatives seek to preserve and enhance soil ecosystems by aligning agricultural practices with ecological principles, ensuring long-term productivity and environmental stability. Enhancing soil health will improve soil functions, supporting the concept that increasing the soil organic carbon (SOC) is necessary. This study determined that conservation tillage is more advantageous for soil health than conventional tillage, a topic that is still controversial among scientists and farmers, and that various tillage systems exhibit distinct interactions. These strategies, through the integrated management of the interaction of plant, soil, microbial, and human activities, would enhance soil health.

… In this context, the main objective of the study is to improve understanding regarding the relationship between SOM and the main farming systems adopted in Italy by taking spatial …

… detection of soil degradation and water and food pollution. We aimed to assess if alternative farming systems foster soil health-indicated by soil fauna-compared to industrial systems in …

Soil health and quality are foundational to agricultural sustainability and meeting global food security priorities. However, intensive farming practices have degraded soil ecosystems. Organic amendments and regenerative management practices can restore soil function by overcoming nutritional limitations, improving physical and biological properties, and promoting general soil and crop resilience. This review synthesizes research on major sources of organic soil amendments including animal manures, composts, cover crops, crop residues and living mulches. We describe their multifaceted edaphic and agronomic benefits from providing a slow release bank of macro and micronutrients, increasing soil organic matter, and stimulating beneficial microbial communities. Complementary and synergistic soil building practices are also covered, encompassing conservation tillage techniques like no-till, crop diversification via rotations and intercropping, and agroecological integration of trees and livestock. Although transitioning from degraded conventional systems requires patience as years of soil regeneration are needed to enable high system performance, outcomes consistently show integrated practices that minimize disturbance and maintain living ground cover while leveraging organic inputs can transform the foundation of agricultural systems by enhancing soil ecosystem function. Widespread adoption of this soil health paradigm can thereby enable sustainable intensification and resilience.

Historically integral to Indian agriculture, millets are experiencing resurgence, driven by their adaptability to harsh climatic conditions and minimal resource requirements. The article explores the significant benefits of millets in soil nutrient management, demonstrating their ability to thrive in nutrient-poor soils while contributing to soil fertility through organic matter addition and improved soil structure. The integration of millets in crop rotation and intercropping systems is highlighted as a sustainable practice that enhances soil biodiversity and reduces the reliance on chemical inputs. A key environmental benefit of millet cultivation is its low water requirement and drought resistance, crucial in water-scarce regions, making it a strategic crop for adapting to climate change. Also examines the socio-economic impacts of millet cultivation. In rural areas, millets play a vital role in livelihoods by providing a sustainable food source and income generation, particularly in marginal environments. However, challenges in market accessibility and supply chain inefficiencies pose significant hurdles. Increasing consumer awareness and acceptance of millets, once considered traditional or 'poor man’s food', is critical for reviving their cultivation. This is complemented by emerging research and technologies in millet cultivation, focused on developing improved varieties and precision agriculture techniques tailored to the needs of millet farming. The potential for scaling up millet cultivation is immense, particularly in regions facing environmental constraints. The article emphasizes the integration of millets into global sustainable farming strategies, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals. This integration is supported by international organizations advocating for millets in agricultural policies and programs. In conclusion, the review underscores the importance of millets in the context of global food security and sustainable agriculture. The growing importance of millets backed by research, policy support, and market trends, positions them as a key crop in the quest for a sustainable and resilient agricultural future.

… soil health management index (SHMI) that evaluates the agricultural system using the soil health principles to minimize soil … diversity, and provide continuous soil cover and living roots. …

Understanding the complex interactions of plants and soils in the face of global food security and environmental degradation challenges is critical to the future of sustainable agriculture. This review discusses the important link between soil health and crop productivity by providing and comprehensive assessment of soil properties and management methods. By examining the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, it uncovers the key limitations posed by the soil environment on crop growth. The review highlights how soil texture, nutrient availability, and moisture levels directly impact on root growth, water uptake, and nutrient use efficiencies, while also exploring how diverse cropping systems enhance soil ecology and biodiversity. By utilizing state-of-the-art bioinformatics, we offer an in-depth exploration of rhizosphere microbial communities, emphasizing the functions of phosphate-solubilizing and nitrogen-fixing bacteria in promoting vital nutrient cycles. The potential of using microbial fertilizers to increase crop resistance to disease and stress hold a major premise for future sustainability in agriculture. In this regard, this review highlights the long-term impacts of crop cultivation on soil microbial diversity, revealing intricate selection processes between crops and their microbial partners in shaping crop-soil-microbe interactions. In terms of soil management, practical nutrient management strategies are proposed based on soil testing, emphasizing the benefits of organic farming and conservation tillage for soil health. Modern precision agricultural tools and remote sensing technologies are encouraged to be refined for effective nutrient management. At the policy level, we evaluate international guidelines aimed at fostering agricultural sustainability, suggesting new research pathways for crop-soil dynamics and offering approaches for developing soil health indicators in the face of global environmental challenges.

… by encouraging and enhancing biological cycles within farming system by giving due credit to the soil flora and fauna, plants, and animals. Organic farming has been reported to be a …

In modern agriculture, ensuring soil health and effective fertility management are paramount for sustainable crop production and environmental stewardship. This review article comprehensively explores a spectrum of strategies aimed at enhancing soil health and fertility management within the context of sustainable agriculture. Beginning with an overview of the pivotal role soil health plays in agricultural systems, the review meticulously examines the significance of adopting sound soil fertility management practices to sustain soil productivity while mitigating adverse environmental impacts. Traditional and innovative approaches to soil management are thoroughly discussed, encompassing a range of practices such as organic amendments, cover cropping, crop rotation, reduced tillage, and integrated nutrient management. These practices, deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, are shown to enhance soil structure, foster nutrient cycling, and promote beneficial soil microbial communities, thereby contributing to long-term soil health and productivity. Furthermore, the review elucidates emerging technologies and methodologies that hold promise for revolutionizing soil health and fertility management in sustainable farming systems. Precision agriculture techniques leveraging GPS, remote sensing, and data analytics are highlighted for their potential to optimize resource use and improve crop management practices. Biochar application, a burgeoning area of research, is explored for its ability to enhance soil fertility, sequester carbon, and improve soil water retention. Additionally, manipulation of the soil microbiome through innovative techniques presents exciting opportunities for enhancing soil health and resilience, the review underscores the importance of continued research, education, and policy support in promoting sustainable soil management practices. Recommendations for future research directions are provided, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaborations, long-term field studies, and farmer participatory research. Practical implications for farmers and policymakers are also delineated, emphasizing the imperative of adopting holistic approaches to soil management that integrate traditional wisdom with cutting-edge technologies. By embracing sustainable soil management practices, farmers and policymakers can safeguard soil health, enhance agricultural productivity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our food systems and environment.

The Subak traditional farming system in Bali embodies a harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and spirituality, epitomizing the Balinese philosophy of "Tri Hita Karana." This qualitative study explores the role of the Subak system in the preservation of natural and cultural resources in Bali. Through interviews with Subak farmers, water temple priests, and other stakeholders, as well as participant observation and document analysis, the study examines the ecological functions, cultural significance, and challenges facing the Subak system. The findings reveal that the Subak system plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, biodiversity, and soil health in Bali's landscapes. Furthermore, the Subak system holds profound cultural significance, serving as a spiritual anchor, fostering community cohesion, and preserving cultural heritage. However, the Subak system faces numerous challenges, including urbanization, water scarcity, and demographic shifts, which threaten its sustainability and resilience. Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts to protect Subak landscapes, promote traditional farming practices, and empower local communities. By recognizing the holistic value of the Subak system, stakeholders can work together to ensure the preservation of Bali's natural and cultural heritage for future generations.

Agriculture is facing a severe threat to its sustainability due to the growing demands for food, feed, and other renewable nonfood raw materials in the face of global warming. Regenerative agriculture is increasingly recognized as a vital solution to a range of ecological and social issues. It actively revitalizes ecosystems, focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and mitigating climate change, going beyond sustainable practices. Governments and other organizations at all levels, from global to regional, are exploring how regenerative agriculture can be integrated into climate change initiatives to sustain ecosystem. This powerful benefit can be achieved without reducing yields or farmer profits. Soil, as a living and dynamic environment, is home to a diverse range of micro- and macro biota that contribute to its characteristics. Healthy soil is characterized by favorable physical properties (texture, water-holding capacity), chemical properties (pH, soil organic matter; SOM), and biological properties (microbial diversity, and soil respiration), which are essential for nurturing nutritious and profitable crops and improve human health. Regenerative farming is attracting interest from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to improve soil health and sustain ecology. Several academics and non-governmental organizations have attempted to explain the scope and significance of regenerative agriculture. This review outlines how regenerative agriculture practices can mitigate global warming, improve soil health, boost biodiversity, and its socioecological impacts. For future prospects, further scientific research required to examine the effects of regenerative agriculture on both livestock and human health, in order to promote a healthier community.

… new perspective for restoring soil health by contrasting soil decline from a long-term perspective in organic farming systems in a sustainable agri-based circular bioeconomy system. …

Conservation tillage practices have become increasingly recognized as crucial strategies in the effort to achieve sustainable farming systems. These practices, which include methods such as notill, striptill, mulchtill, and ridgetill, aim to minimize soil disturbance, thereby promoting a range of environmental, economic, and agronomic benefits. This review article delves into the different types of conservation tillage practices, elaborating on their specific techniques, advantages, and potential drawbacks. It examines how these practices influence soil health by enhancing soil structure, increasing organic matter, and fostering biodiversity. Furthermore, the article discusses the impact of conservation tillage on crop productivity, highlighting both the yield benefits and the challenges related to pest and weed management. The role of conservation tillage in mitigating environmental issues such as soil erosion, water conservation, and greenhouse gas emissions is also explored in depth. Through a synthesis of recent research findings and case studies, this article provides a thorough analysis of the contributions of conservation tillage to sustainable agriculture. It also offers practical recommendations for farmers, policymakers, and researchers to optimize the adoption and effectiveness of conservation tillage practices, ultimately aiming to support a transition towards more resilient and sustainable farming systems.

… By proper understanding of soil processes that support crop … systems which help in maintaining soil health over time. In terms of agriculture, soil health refers to the ability of the soil to …

Rural ecosystem health (REH) serves as an effective metric for assessing the damage degree and stability state within rural systems and their components. It reflects the interaction and the balance among rural subsystems, emphasizing the harmonious development of resources, agriculture, environment, economy, and society that are fundamental to sustainable rural development. Most regional-scale ecosystem health assessments primarily focus on either the natural state of the ecosystem or external disturbances affecting it, often neglecting human ecological systems characterized by economic and social dimensions. Taking Chongqing as an example, we established an improved REH assessment framework by integrating ecological integrity from the perspective of a social-economy-natural compound ecosystem. Furthermore, we innovatively incorporated the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the formulation of the REH indicator system to quantitatively elucidate the spatiotemporal characteristics. The results indicated that: (1) The REH in Chongqing exhibited an evolutionary pattern characterized by a subsequent rise, maintaining values between 0.363–0.872 from 2000 to 2018. This trend reflected a distinct two-stage development characteristic, with the rural socio-economic subsystem contributing the most at 33.36%, followed closely by the rural environmental subsystem at 27.84%; (2) In 2018, the REH across the 36 districts and counties in Chongqing displayed spatial differentiation patterns described as “collapse in the west, high levels in the northeast, and localized surges”. The areas ranked from smallest to largest REH were metropolitan, western, southeastern, and northeastern areas; (3) Four levels (e.g., disease, single health, compound health, and comprehensive health) and twelve sub-levels of REH were defined using a dominant factors method. Finally, we analyzed the driving factors from four aspects of urbanization development: policy regulation, urban-rural factors flow, and regional differences. We also proposed differentiated planning and policies for sustainable rural development in Chongqing.

… speed up the movement of people from rural to urban areas. On the other … in rural regions (Ali 2020). Approaches like the promotion of payments for ecosystem services (PES) help rural …

Rural areas are the main source of ecosystem services in arid and semi-arid areas, and ecosystem services are the background conditions for rural revitalization. In this study, the spatial pattern of key ecosystem services in the countryside was assessed, and the trade-offs and synergistic relationships among ecosystem services were investigated, using the Tacheng-Emin Basin in China as the study area. Finally, the types of ecological function zoning and development strategies for the countryside are proposed. The results showed that: (1) the area of ecological land was large, and the average land use intensity was 2.48, which belonged to the medium intensity. (2) The mean values of the six ecosystem services are all in the middle and lower classes, and the spatial distribution of the five ecosystem services is similar, except for food production. (3) Except for grain production, the other five ecosystem services showed positive feedback to elevation. The other five ecosystem services are synergistic, and there are trade-offs between grain production and other ecosystem services. In the nonlinear interaction mechanism of ecosystem services, the fluctuation constraint occupies the largest proportion. (4) At smaller spatial scales, there are more types of ecosystem service clusters. Combining the results of the study, the villages in the study area can be categorized into five types. This study formulates five priority levels of rural ecological revitalization and proposes different development recommendations for the sustainable development of each type of village. This study is helpful for the fine management of land resources and the revitalization of rural ecology and provides a reference for the sustainable development of ecosystem services in arid and semi-arid areas.

The symbiotic relationship between bees and the environment underscores the potential of apiculture as a sustainable practice. Bees, as pollinators, play a crucial role in ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation. Their pollination services are essential for the reproduction of numerous plant species, including many crops that constitute the backbone of agricultural economies. Beekeeping can diversify income sources, reducing dependence on single crops and enhancing household resilience to economic shocks. The aim of this paper is to explore the multifaceted role of apiculture as a tool for sustainable rural development. In conclusion, apiculture holds immense promise as a tool for sustainable rural development, offering a pathway towards economic prosperity, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship. By harnessing the synergies between bees, biodiversity, and community development, beekeeping has the potential to transform rural landscapes and livelihoods. However, realizing this potential requires concerted efforts to address the challenges and barriers that hinder the widespread adoption of beekeeping practices. Through collaborative action and integrated approaches, it can unlock the transformative power of apiculture and build resilient, vibrant, and sustainable rural communities for generations to come.

This paper critically examines the evolving field of agricultural economics and its imperative to transition towards sustainable development. Traditional agricultural practices have often been associated with environmental degradation, resource depletion, and social inequities. This paper reviews the current state of agricultural economics, identifies key challenges, and proposes a framework for redefining the discipline to align with the principles of sustainable development. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topic, demonstrating a clear understanding of the issues and challenges in agricultural economics. It offers valuable insights into the role of agricultural economics in promoting sustainable development and provides a well-structured framework for redefining the discipline to meet the needs of the future. The study highlights the evolving role of agricultural economics in achieving sustainable development, with a focus on both challenges and opportunities. The methods involve a thorough literature review, analyzing principles of sustainable agriculture, economic instruments, technological innovations, and social dimensions. Case studies from diverse regions illustrate successful implementations of sustainable practices. The findings underscore the significance of agroecology, economic incentives, and market mechanisms in promoting sustainable agriculture. Precision agriculture and biotechnology emerge as pivotal technologies, but ethical considerations are paramount. Social dimensions, including rural development and gender equity, play crucial roles in achieving sustainability. The review identifies barriers to adoption and proposes future research directions to advance the field. Overall, the review advocates for a paradigm shift in agricultural economics, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and sustainable approach to address global challenges and contribute to a more sustainable future.

… in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The two issues are paid great attention to in China and are generally intertwined in impoverished rural areas where ecosystems are …

This paper explores community perspectives on forest landscape restoration (FLR) initiatives and their impacts on ecosystems, livelihoods and social cohesion. The study is based on data collected from 08 focus group discussions (FGDs) conducted in local communities involved in FLR activities. A coding process was used to identify key themes and patterns that shed light on the impacts of FLR. The results show that FLR initiatives have led to social cohesion and conflict resolution, including the establishment of community-based organizations (CBOs), the involvement of community volunteers in various FLR tasks, a cooperative/collaborative approach to forest management, conflict resolution, and the empowerment of local communities. In addition, the results of the study showed that FLRs have successfully regenerated and restored the forest ecosystem, including restoration of biodiversity, plant diversity, improvement of animal populations and livestock health, soil health, and water quality. Ecosystem restoration has improved community livelihoods, including increased crop productivity, access to education, affordable health care, improved economic conditions, and food security. Based on the findings, policy recommendations include strengthening support for community FLR initiatives, promoting stakeholder collaboration, and promoting social equity.

… of strong rural livelihoods and the sustainable use of natural … for ecosystem services (PES) and sustainable silvopastoral … and land cover change and ecosystem services models to …