A new study reveals that modern agriculture is threatening biodiversity in European protected areas, but traditional low-intensity farming methods can help preserve habitats and species. The findings highlight the urgent need to strengthen agricultural regulations inside protected areas to achieve EU biodiversity conservation goals.
Researchers developed a new model to simulate and project China's agricultural non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions, identifying priority regions and subsectors for mitigation. The study found that current mitigation efforts achieve only 26-45% of the total technical potential, with significant room for improvement.
A new study finds that wetlands along the Mississippi River Basin effectively clean up nitrogen runoff from agricultural fields. The researchers show that restoring these wetlands can lead to significant savings for local drinking water treatment facilities, with potential annual benefits of $200 million.
Researchers have developed magnetic carbon adsorbents made from flax shives and eucalyptus sawdust to effectively remove toxic chemicals like pentachlorophenol from water. The materials demonstrated outstanding performance in removing up to 95% of PCP, showing excellent stability and minimal loss of performance.
A new study published in Nature Geoscience reveals that China's cropland soils have stabilized in pH levels since 2013, linked to agricultural policy reforms. However, recovery has been slow and uneven across different types of farmland, with paddy fields showing signs of improvement but dryland soils remaining acidic.
An online monitoring system for farmland non-point source pollution uses a serial pipeline to monitor continuous cropping farmland. The system breaks through limitations of existing technologies, providing real-time data and automated sampling.
China's farmland exhibits a dual characteristic of strong emissions and weak carbon sink, but optimizing management can reduce emissions by 11.6 Tg CO2-eq per year. Implementing '4R nutrient management' and improved irrigation techniques can increase soil organic carbon content and enhance carbon sequestration capacity.
China has made significant technological breakthroughs in stabilized fertilizers, increasing nitrogen use efficiency by over 50% while reducing losses and greenhouse gas emissions. Field trials have verified the comprehensive benefits of these products, including increased crop yields and reduced fertilizer usage.
A new survey conducted by UC Berkeley researchers found that approximately 75% of agricultural workers in Sonoma County have worked during wildfires since 2017. The study also found that half of the farmworkers reported having ailments like headaches or sore throats after working during a wildfire.
Researchers developed a clean process to transform microalgae and agricultural residues into biofuels, bio-adsorbents, and fluorescent carbon nanodots. The study offers a sustainable way to reuse biomass resources, contributing to renewable energy production and environmental protection.
A recent study suggests that combining rewetting with biochar and iron sulphate additions can significantly slow down carbon loss from drained agricultural peat soils. This combination enhances carbon storage by suppressing soil enzymes and promoting the formation of iron-bound carbon compounds.
The study demonstrates that combining LiDAR, multispectral, and thermal infrared imaging with ensemble learning significantly enhances prediction accuracy for aboveground biomass estimation. This scalable framework supports precision agriculture, phenotyping, and environmental monitoring.
The study quantified emissions of four pollutants from agricultural production and domestic sewage in the Haixi area, revealing rural domestic sewage was main contributor to NH3-N. The research suggests promoting low-pollution modes, strengthening sewage pipe networks, and using comprehensive treatment technology for livestock breeding.
A study on C. elegans reveals that dissolved biochar affects nematode growth and physiology, with lower doses promoting development and higher doses disrupting normal functions. The findings highlight the need for careful dosing and oversight when deploying biochar in agricultural systems.
The US has traditionally been an agricultural powerhouse but global dynamics are changing due to political and economic factors. Row crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton are experiencing stagnant or declining exports, with the trade deficit projected to worsen in coming years.
Researchers have developed a modified biochar made from biogas residue that can efficiently remove ammonium nitrogen from water. The potassium-permanganate-modified biochar achieved an adsorption capacity up to four times greater than unmodified biochar, making it a promising tool for environmental remediation.
A two-year field study reveals that biodegradable microplastics, often considered eco-friendly, are reshaping farmfield soils in unexpected ways. Bioplastics PLA reduced stable carbon compounds by 32% while boosting microbial necromass and fungal-dominated soil ecosystems.
A machine learning approach enhances the treatment of livestock manure, predicting phosphorus distribution and recovery. The process converts biowaste into hydrochar and a nutrient-rich liquid, reducing environmental pollution and supporting sustainable agriculture.
A comprehensive study by UC Riverside's School of Public Policy found that agricultural conservation programs saved water at a low cost per acre-foot, while new supply efforts were more expensive. The analysis showed that 80% of the Colorado River's water is consumed by agriculture, and incentive programs can deliver meaningful savings.
A study by ICTA-UAB reveals that non-agricultural sectors absorbed most of the value added in global agri-food systems between 1995 and 2020. The Global South increased its share of agricultural production, but countries of the North still capture a disproportionate share of income from higher-value sectors.
The 'Grassland Butterfly Index' shows a significant decline in butterfly populations in Germany from 2016 to 2023, with some species decreasing by up to 50%. This trend is consistent with European-wide declines, highlighting the need for effective conservation measures to protect these important ecosystem indicators.
Researchers are analyzing leaf and soil samples from diverse areas to determine beneficial or harmful roles of different microbes. The study aims to improve crop production practices and overall yield by assessing the health of soil rhizosphere.
The Center for Food Animal Wellbeing's 11th annual symposium will focus on improving welfare outcomes in food animal production. The event, themed 'Boots on the Ground: Animal Welfare from the Veterinary Perspective,' will feature real-world veterinary insights and case studies on animal welfare.
Researchers used multiple agronomic models to examine the effects of climate-smart agricultural practices on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions. The study found positive effects in both studied locations under a baseline scenario, but negative effects in a worst-case scenario.
The journal bridges agronomy, ecology, environmental science, and sustainability to address pressing global challenges such as soil health, water quality, and climate resilience. It offers a broad scope for original research, reviews, perspectives, and commentaries with no article processing charges until 2027.
A new phenotyping robot developed by Nanjing Agricultural University's team enables accurate and reliable plant tracking in various environments. The robot integrates multisensor fusion algorithms and advanced navigation systems to collect high-throughput phenotypic data, bridging the gap between genomics and observable traits.
A new UN report reveals that global agricultural trade affects water access, alleviating water scarcity for high-income populations while intensifying shortages for low-income communities. The report calls for measures to address outstanding water inequity issues resulting from international food trades.
The inaugural AI in Agriculture Symposium will bring together experts from academia and industry to discuss the latest research and real-world applications for agriculture. The symposium will feature a roundtable discussion on multidisciplinary collaborations in agriculture.
A team of economists and scientists proposes a groundbreaking 'climate-smart' biofuel policy to promote low-carbon biofuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance soil carbon sequestration. The policy aims to reward farmers for adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, such as no-till farming and precision agriculture.
A new study published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics found that tropical systems significantly impact crop insurance premium rates in the Mid-South region. The researchers analyzed data from Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, which are more prone to hurricane damage due to their proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.
Researchers proposed a quantitative design theory and technical pathway for green yield increase and efficient nitrogen utilization in winter wheat. The "Three-Stage Theory" identifies key bottlenecks and recommends optimizing population structure, soil health, and root-crown interactions to overcome them.
A study proposes a sustainable production pathway to achieve an annual yield of 22.5 t·ha<sup>–1</sup> on the North China Plain, improving soil quality and nutrient use efficiency while reducing resource input. Collaborative innovation between scientists and farmers has shown effective results in promoting technology promotion.
A team of experts envisions a path toward a carbon-neutral agricultural future by expanding policies designed to promote low-carbon biofuels. Climate-smart practices could reduce carbon emissions by 4-8 billion tonnes per year, according to studies.
This new method combines top-down and bottom-up approaches to address the challenge of increasing grain production while reducing pollution. The 'Technology Backyard' serves as a problem collection station and testing ground for technologies developed in collaboration with frontline producers.
The study reveals that China's green technology innovations have improved crop yields and reduced fertilizer use by 40% and 0.83 million tons, respectively. The researchers propose four strategies to address challenges and predict significant increases in food output by 2050.
A new few-shot learning model, PlantCaFo, achieves 93.53% accuracy in controlled tests and surpasses existing approaches in real-world settings. The model's ability to learn from limited samples makes it suitable for agricultural applications where data collection is expensive and time-consuming.
This innovative approach optimizes the soil-crop-microbe system to achieve high yield, efficiency, and low pollution. By adopting green technology, China has increased food production by 21-87% while reducing nitrogen fertilizer inputs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Anish Sapkota is researching abiotic stressors like drought, heat, and soil nutrients in crops such as wheat and alfalfa to improve precision agriculture. Variable rate application of water and fertilizer can help farmers save money and products by targeting specific areas of the field.
A study by University of California, Riverside researchers found that inhaling agricultural dust can alter the gut microbiome and impair intestinal function, leading to increased 'leaky gut' and associated chronic diseases. The study highlights the need for protective measures for agricultural workers.
A study in Egypt's agricultural provinces found significant differences in how farmers handle various types of plastics. Mulching films are often directly buried or burned, while covering films are collected for recycling due to their durability. Economic pressure is a major barrier to recycling, with high costs and labor collection ex...
Biodegradable microplastics have been found to promote nutrient turnover in soil, leading to improved pea growth. In contrast, traditional microplastics had more complex effects on plant biomass and microbial activity. Long-term toxicity of microplastics remains unknown, emphasizing the need for future field experiments.
Agricultural plastics play a dual role in China's food security and green transition, offering significant technological, economic, and environmental benefits. However, improper disposal and prolonged use pose serious pollution risks to soil health and the human food chain.
Agricultural systems scientist Bruno Basso's research at Michigan State University provides a dynamic baseline approach to measure climate benefits in agricultural carbon markets. The study evaluates both soil organic carbon sequestration and nitrous oxide emissions, offering a comprehensive assessment of net climate impact.
This review systematically presents China's agricultural biotechnology development, highlighting progress in functional gene discovery and transgenic technologies. The Chinese government has established a regulatory system to ensure safe application of biotech products, with steady annual growth in approved applications, focusing on GM...
A new study suggests that EU agricultural policy can reduce carbon emissions by nearly a third and improve biodiversity recovery through strategic de-intensification. This approach involves adopting more sustainable farming practices, such as organic fertilizers, biological pest control, and low-input systems.
New research claims adding lime to agricultural soils can remove CO2 from the atmosphere, rather than cause emissions. The study, based on over 100 years of data, shows that the addition of acidity is the main driver for CO2 emissions from soils.
A review has identified six key employment pathways for youth in Africa's agricultural sector, including primary production, agri-service provision and green entrepreneurship. The review highlights the importance of scalable and sustainable business models that support young entrepreneurs, such as collective action and revenue-sharing ...
A new study by the HUN-REN Centre for Ecological Research found that villages within forest-dominated landscapes exhibit higher biodiversity compared to agricultural settings. City proximity boosts human well-being, but has little impact on species numbers and diversity.
Research by Curtin University reveals that native habitats near farmland can enhance insect diversity, supporting pollination and crop resilience. The study's findings offer a potential solution to safeguarding global food security for the growing population, which will require increased agricultural productivity by 25-75% by 2050.
The LAFERIA Project focuses on identifying key factors for reintroducing landscape features, evaluating their benefits and challenges, and developing strategies to overcome them. The project will employ a participatory engagement framework to work with stakeholders across seven European countries.
Researchers are studying the effects of Hurricane Helene flooding on agricultural land in Tennessee, with a focus on managing contaminants in croplands. The team aims to provide actionable knowledge to farmers and communities affected by the disaster.
Agricultural carbon emissions in Fujian exhibited a 'double decline' trend from 2002 to 2022, with total emissions fluctuating downward by 11% and carbon emission intensity plummeting by 82.46%. Promoting organic fertilizers, optimizing rice planting patterns, and improving resource utilization can further reduce emissions.
Tim Rials, UT AgResearch associate dean, receives the 2025 Susan E. Duncan Meritorious Service Award for his exemplary contributions to agInnovation South and the land-grant ideal. He was recognized for his outstanding service and achievements in advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability.
Yang Zhao, associate professor at University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, wins agInnovation Research Award of Excellence for his work on precision livestock farming and air quality. His research combines agricultural engineering and animal science to optimize production and address challenges in the poultry industry.
Hongwei Xin, dean of UT AgResearch, has been awarded the Excellence in Leadership Award from agInnovation South. He is credited with enhancing the land-grant ideal through his outstanding service and achievements, which exemplify the leadership goals of agInnovation.
Researchers propose machine learning for efficient and eco-friendly weed control in farmland, enabling precision strikes and reducing environmental burdens. By analyzing vast amounts of agricultural data, algorithms can differentiate between crops and weeds, predict weed growth trends, and optimize weeding strategies.
A new study by Virginia Tech researchers found that large-scale solar farms have a complex impact on nearby property values. Agricultural land within two miles of the site saw a 19.4% increase in value, while residential homes lost an average of 4.8%. The negative impact was more pronounced in counties with conservative leanings.
Researchers have developed a new pedestrian detection algorithm for smart agricultural equipment, improving accuracy in complex environments with low-resolution images and dense targets. The new model, YOLOv8n-SS, achieves a 7.2% increase in mean Average Precision on the CrowdHuman dataset and shows high real-time performance.
A new archaeological survey reveals extensive precolonial agricultural landscape in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with evidence of complex raised fields and maize cultivation dating back to 1000-1600 CE. The study challenges long-held assumptions about the scale and nature of ancestral American agriculture.
Large-scale solar arrays will occupy approximately 0.2 percent of agricultural land in Arkansas, with projected impacts on crop prices and proximal real estate value. Researchers found that utility-scale solar projects can coexist with agriculture through integrated systems like agrivoltaics.