Sustainable Agriculture
Articles tagged with Sustainable Agriculture
Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?
Swansea spin-out Bionema Group receives second King’s Award for Enterprise
Bionema Group Ltd, a Swansea University spin-out, has received the second King's Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development. The company develops biological pest control and sustainable agriculture technologies, providing environmentally sustainable alternatives to synthetic pesticides.
Less water, same taste: New approach helps growers produce sweet corn more efficiently
University of Missouri researchers developed an irrigation strategy that allows farmers to conserve water while maintaining crop quality. By tailoring water amounts based on plant growth stages, farmers can reduce water usage and costs.
Urban agriculture could supply around 28 percent of Europe’s vegetable demand
A new study estimates that urban agriculture in European cities could produce up to 20 million tons of vegetables annually, representing roughly one-third of the region's current vegetable production. This could supply around 28% of Europe's vegetable demand for 190 million Europeans.
Turning “wastewater” into a resource: New insights on liquid fertilizer from hydrothermal carbonization
Process water from hydrothermal carbonization contains substantial amounts of nutrients and organic compounds, making it a nutrient-rich resource for crop production and environmental management. Diluting the liquid or using pre-treatment methods can reduce risks associated with its use.
First gap-free peanut genomes reveal genes behind bigger seeds and better oils
Researchers have produced complete genome sequences for six peanut varieties, identifying two candidate genes linked to oil content and seed size. These findings provide a comprehensive blueprint for future peanut breeding and improvement strategies.
How papayas benefit cocoa cultivation
A study found that leaf-cutter ants can provide ecological services to cocoa agroforests, reducing damage caused by the insects. By using simple methods like planting papayas as a 'distraction' and preserving surrounding forests, farmers can produce good cocoa while maintaining biodiversity
Goose poop could fuel a circular agriculture strategy, Concordia research shows
A Concordia study reveals that black soldier flies can survive and thrive on goose feces, producing valuable biomass for composting and organic fertilizer. The insects' waste also serves as a nutritious fertilizer for duckweed, improving its growth rate and root system.
Lack of diversity in food sources makes us all vulnerable, says UK politician
Natalie Bennett argues that the current food system is unsustainable, with half of global calories coming from just three crops. She proposes alternative approaches rooted in indigenous experience, such as permaculture and agroecological methods.
Genetic markers fast-track breeding of seedless muscadine grapes
Using new genetic markers, fruit breeders can predict flower sex type and seedlessness in muscadines and other grapes with high accuracy. The approach will save time and resources in developing new grape varieties, including the major challenge of creating flavorful seedless muscadines on self-pollinating vines.
Green tea and biochar combine to create smarter fertilizers that boost crops and cut emissions
A new study reveals a innovative fertilizer technology that combines biochar, natural polymers, and green-synthesized iron nanoparticles to release nutrients only when plants need them. The results show significant improvements in soil health and reduced environmental impacts.
Watering smarter, not more
A new system can map soil moisture tree by tree, allowing growers to water specific trees if they're dry. Maintaining the right moisture level is crucial for plant health, as too little water can stress trees, while too much water can deprive roots of oxygen.
Unlocking the phosphorus puzzle: How microplastics and hydrochar change the way rice paddies feed
A new study reveals that microplastics and hydrochar can mobilize trapped phosphorus in rice paddies, triggering distinct microbial strategies. Hydrochar increased available phosphorus by 21.1%, while microplastics pushed it up by 14.2%.
The food commodities driving deforestation globally
A comprehensive study reveals that staple crops such as maize, rice, and cassava are responsible for about 11% of all agriculture-driven deforestation globally. In contrast, major export-oriented commodities like cocoa, coffee, and rubber cause less than 5% of deforestation.
Organic grain field day set for April 7 at Kibler Vegetable Research Station
The event aims to connect grain farmers with buyers from the region to discuss market opportunities for organic grain crops. Presenters will also showcase ongoing organic research in Arkansas.
Trace levels of food pathogen do not always translate to health risk, says study
A study by Frontiers in Science argues that ultra-sensitive food safety tests may drive food waste and unavailability, but not always translate to health risk. The researchers propose a more balanced approach that considers trade-offs between food safety, sustainability, and nutritional health.
Frontiers in Science Deep Dive webinar series: Trace levels of foodborne pathogens do not always translate to health risk, says study
A new study suggests that ultra-sensitive food safety tests may drive food waste and unavailability without significant public health benefits. The researchers propose using more flexible risk-based approaches to align food safety policies with sustainability goals.
Jeonbuk National University researchers develop clustering-based framework for water level forecasting
The new framework groups stations with similar hydrological behavior, reducing computational cost while maintaining high predictive accuracy. This approach enables scalable, data-efficient AI systems for water level forecasting, supporting flood early-warning systems, optimized reservoir and irrigation management, and improved decision...
Salad packs a healthy punch to meet a growing Vitamin B12 need
Researchers used aeroponic technology to grow pea shoots fortified with Vitamin B12, delivering the recommended daily allowance in a single serving. The fortified crop maintained shelf-life and persisted through cold storage, offering a commercially viable approach to dietary supplementation.
What a releaf: Tomatoes, carrots and lettuce store pharmaceutical byproducts in their leaves
Research from Johns Hopkins University found that tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce accumulate pharmaceutical byproducts in their leaves, which may be a concern for consumers eating the fruit and roots of these vegetables
How farming perennial plants can help us in times of climate change, food insecurity and social division
Perennial crops offer a promising solution to collective challenges, investing more energy into root systems, allowing for regeneration and persistence. This approach minimizes climate-warming emissions, producing diverse food sources while maintaining soil health and resilience.
Soybeans recruit beneficial soil microbes to defend against major pest
Researchers discover that resistant soybean varieties actively recruit beneficial soil microorganisms to suppress the devastating soybean cyst nematode. These microbes can be transferred to soil to help defend susceptible soybeans, providing a promising new approach for sustainable crop protection.
Rice-based cheese? Study points to possibility for new rice markets
Researchers at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture have developed a hypoallergenic alternative cheese using rice proteins. The study analyzed various protein sources from brown rice, white rice, and bran, finding that they can provide qualities needed for plant-based cheesemaking.
Temporal dynamics of predatory nematodes in Guam reveal effective biological control of Meloidogyne spp.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that beneficial nematodes, including predatory nematodes, play a crucial role in regulating pest populations in tropical soils. The research shows that these natural allies can suppress harmful plant-parasitic nematodes, leading to improved crop yields and reduced losses.
Sustainability, community, and… food
The project aims to integrate native edible plants into urban spaces, leveraging Singapore's tropical climate and cultural heritage. It plans to engage the global research community through publishing journal articles and organizing discussions with legal academics and practitioners.
New study challenges assumptions behind Africa’s Green Revolution efforts and calls for farmer-centered development models
A new study examining small-scale farming in Tanzania argues that major agricultural development initiatives are built on flawed assumptions about how rural households make decisions. The research finds that household composition, gender dynamics, and labor constraints strongly shape how small-scale farmers allocate land and labor.
Conservation agriculture, including no-dig, crop-rotation and mulching methods, reduces water runoff and soil loss and boosts crop yield by as much as 122%, in Ethiopian trial
A new study from Ethiopia reveals that conservation agriculture methods like no-dig, crop-rotation, and mulching can significantly reduce water runoff and soil loss. These eco-friendly techniques have been shown to increase crop yields by as much as 122%.
Applied Microbiology International launches new report on improving soil health in the UK
The report highlights the need for an agreed definition of healthy soil, scalable biological indicators, and collaborative transitions to sustainable land management practices. It emphasizes the importance of building trust and aligning diverse priorities among all soil stakeholders.
How bacteria can reclaim lost energy, nutrients, and clean water from wastewater
Emerging microbially-powered technologies can convert up to 35% of wastewater's chemical energy into electricity and extract valuable nutrients. This approach could power agriculture, global sanitation and its own treatment, while reducing pollution and overcoming regulatory obstacles.
New rice gene breaks the yield–quality trade-off in rice
A new rice gene, GSN7, has been discovered that can simultaneously increase grain yield and improve quality. The study found that precise manipulation of this gene can overcome the long-standing trade-off between yield and quality in rice breeding.
Plant hormone therapy could improve global food security
Researchers at Colorado State University have found a way to boost plant growth while maintaining its immune system through hormone treatment, showing promise for increasing food production. The approach involves genetically manipulating phytohormone interactions to restore cell division and increase disease resistance.
Aussie desert plant packs a protein punch
A study by RMIT University found that an Australian desert plant, Old Man Saltbush, has nearly ideal amino acid requirements for human nutrition, making it a potential high-quality plant-derived protein option. The plant was also rich in minerals and improved the nutritional value of wheat pasta when added to it.
Is it possible to cut CO2 emissions from European agriculture by 40 per cent?
A recent study from Norwegian University of Science and Technology suggests that optimizing production in fertile areas while allowing less productive areas to lie fallow can cut greenhouse gas emissions. By doing so, food production can be maintained while reducing pressure on biodiversity by up to 20%.
Hidden insect diversity in grass shoots threatened by mowing
Researchers identified 255 insect species in perennial grasses, but few in annual grasses, highlighting the importance of unmown refuges for biodiversity
The Universitat Jaume I will contribute to food security with new biodegradable alternatives to current agricultural plastic products
Rapid response launched to tackle new yellow rust strains threatening UK wheat
A new strain of yellow rust pathogen has broken down a key resistance gene, leaving over 50% of the UK's wheat acreage vulnerable. Researchers are racing against time to find new resistance genes and breed them into modern wheat varieties.
More help for southeastern dairies
The University of Tennessee Center for Dairy Advancement and Sustainability has received an additional $3.45 million in funding for the Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative, a nationwide network to facilitate regional efforts to support dairy businesses.
Restoring the web of life in farmland
The METAGROLAND project aims to improve environmental farming schemes by studying plant-pollinator interactions and land manager networks. Key findings include the development of practical guidance for agri-environmental schemes that align ecological processes with real-world management.
Pros and cons of pesticides and fertilizers in real-world mandarin orange farms
A recent study by RIKEN researchers analyzed the effects of pesticides and fertilizers on mandarin oranges in real-world farms across Japan. The findings showed that reducing chemical pesticides led to more fruit diseases, while also enhancing soil microbial diversity and improving carbon content. This trade-off highlights the need for...
Farm waste could lock away carbon for decades
Agricultural waste from crops like wheat, rice, and maize can act as a powerful carbon sink when diverted into construction products. The study finds that these materials can store carbon for decades rather than releasing it within months.
Grant to expand self-cloning crop technology for Indian farmers
A $4.9 million Gates Foundation grant will support the development of self-cloning crops in India, improving agricultural productivity and accessibility for smallholder farmers. The project aims to expand synthetic apomixis technology into staple crops like pearl millet and Indian mustard.
Heatwaves could put millions of European cattle at risk by mid-century
The study maps where and how millions of animals may be affected by heat stress in Europe. Regional differences were found, with southern European countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, and Romania likely to face significant impacts.
Farmers’ voices in European protests
A study of European farmers' protests reveals a wide range of concerns including environmental regulations, which differ between countries. Farmers in Germany criticized bureaucracy, while French farmers focused on financial pressures, Belgian farmers expressed a broad mix of concerns, and Dutch farmers voiced dissatisfaction with policy.
CGIAR and partners launch Scaling Hub South Asia in Nepal with major commitments to strengthen water and agrifood security
The Scaling Hub South Asia is a multi-sector platform designed to accelerate proven agricultural, water, and energy innovations. It aims to strengthen regional food and water security for over 500 million people in South Asia.
You’re invited to ICBRA-BWC 2026 – The global biochar gathering
The conference will feature sessions on biochar innovation and real-world impact in materials science, environmental policy, and sustainable agriculture. The journal Biochar and Carbon Research are also being promoted.
Investment in farm productivity tools key to reducing greenhouse gas
A new study from Cornell University researchers found that improved farm productivity is the driving force behind reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Technological advances improving land efficiencies played a larger role in reducing emissions than labor efficiency improvements.
Study finds food waste compost less effective than potting mix alone
Researchers compared seedling germination, growth and nutrient uptake in pure food waste substrate, commercial potting mix and blends with varying ratios. Mixtures with less than 50% food waste compost produced better results.
Microwaves could transform how sustainable carbon materials are made
A new review reveals microwave-assisted pyrolysis can produce advanced carbon materials from biomass and waste in a fraction of the time, with improved performance and sustainability. This technology offers a powerful alternative for building next-generation materials needed for carbon neutrality.
Wastewater sludge byproduct shows promise and risks for sustainable agriculture
Research shows that a liquid byproduct from wastewater sludge can recycle nutrients for agriculture, but high concentrations of this byproduct may disrupt key ecological processes. The study found that periphyton communities retained ability to remove pollutants even at high exposure levels.
Insects remain resilient natural pest control method, new Stirling research shows
A new University of Stirling study shows that using insects like parasitic wasps to control agricultural pests is safer and more environmentally friendly than using chemical pesticides. Despite some whiteflies developing genetic resistance, the study found that survivors have low reproductive success, limiting widespread resistance.
The levers for a sustainable food system
A global food system transformation can slow down global heating by 1.85°C by 2050, while improving human health, reducing hunger and poverty, and conserving biodiversity. The study identifies 23 levers for transformation and finds a high probability of achieving the 1.5°C limit with a 38% chance in 2050.
Uncovering how parasitic plants avoid attacking themselves to improve crop resistance
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered that parasitic plants recognize
UAlbany researcher wins grant to study impact of PFAs ‘forever chemicals’ on edible crops, food quality
A UAlbany researcher will study how PFAS 'forever chemicals' accumulate in plants, affecting their nutritional quality and safety. The study aims to understand the dynamics of PFAS in soil-plant systems and develop regulatory standards to protect public health.
Researchers revive old pea varieties in huge seed collection: ‘An untapped gold mine for the future’
A new AI method has identified 51 old pea varieties with high starch and protein content, potentially suitable for producing plant-based foods. The study shows a close relationship between seed appearance and chemical composition, enabling partial prediction of properties based on images.
Voluntary wintertime cover crop adoption up 5 percent in Arkansas
Researchers found a positive relationship between government support and voluntary planting of cover crops in Arkansas. The study showed that soybean-to-soybean rotation is the most common aftercover crop adoption, with voluntary cover crops increasing by 5% over the 2013-2019 period.
Solar panels over crops may boost farmworkers’ comfort
Agrivoltaics systems can significantly augment quality of life for farmworkers by providing shelter from the sun, cooler drinking water, and reduced fatigue. Researchers found that these systems can reduce wet bulb globe temperature by up to 5.5 degrees Celsius, making them a crucial tool in protecting farmworkers from heat stress.
Old rules do not work for reindeer husbandry
A new research article reveals that the rules of use for Sámi reindeer husbandry create challenges for self-governance and adaptation to climate change. The rules were designed to promote sustainability but have not been effective in accommodating adjustments, leading to conflicts between authorities and herders.
UAE launches new AI ecosystem for global agricultural development
The UAE has launched an AI ecosystem to support climate-resilient farming in vulnerable communities worldwide. The CGIAR AI Hub and four other initiatives aim to drive digital transformation and innovation in agriculture, providing practical solutions for farmers, governments, and development actors.
University of Houston engineers: While melatonin puts us to sleep, it wakes up plants
University of Houston engineers have discovered that melatonin helps plants grow by adjusting biological processes to coincide with daily cycles. The hormone also enhances photosynthesis and improves stress tolerance in crops.