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Carbon cycling in boreal regions is controlled naturally by fire disturbance, climate, hydrology, snowmelt, soil heterogeneity, acidity, low nitrogen and phosphorus availability, mycorrhizal distribution, plant cover, and cryoturbation/permafrost at the northern edge. It is primarily altered by human management via and following land clearance. Each factor interacts with others in complex ways, creating a system characterized by high carbon storage and shaped by natural and anthropogenic disturbance. This paper examines boreal research to answer the question: 'what are the primary factors controlling boreal carbon cycling?' Though climate change threatens boreal systems, they may yet be resilient given many natural feedback loops that resist massive carbon loss. Perhaps the greatest danger is land conversion, which causes permanent losses and drastic alteration of certain carbon pools. Accordingly, it might be argued that it would be overall better to implement policies that keep these lands as forests, including managed forests, rather than convert to agriculture. Conversely, farming of marginal boreal soils might be managed to enhance carbon storage while satisfying local food security needs. However, the impact of agriculture on soil carbon storage is yet to be effectively quantified and initial results offer inconsistent assessments, reflected in the as‐yet natural sciences data‐scarce policy development. Research targeting long‐term carbon cycling, land conversion practices, agroforestry, and communication between boreal scientists and other groups (climate scientists, policymakers, public, and farmers) must be addressed through creation of long‐term experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (BTS-NP) in East Java, Indonesia showcases a breathtaking volcanic landscape and cultural allure, drawing hundreds of thousands of domestic and international visitors. Recreational activities involving human and animal trampling and motorized-vehicle traffic caused soil disturbance along their networks of paths, trails, or roads, potentially having a detrimental long-term effect on the tourism industry and environmental services provided by the national parks. However, the extent of the impact of these disturbances on soil properties remains unclear. This study assessed the impact of different disturbance intensities, consisting of undisturbed locations as a control (zone 1), low to medium-(zone 2), and high- (zone 3) disturbance intensities on five different BTS-NP tourism hotspots, including Entrance Wonokitri (EW), Whispering Sand (WS), Parking Temple (PT), Teletubbies Hill (TH), and Entrance Bromo Stairs (EB), on soil properties, including soil compaction represented by soil penetration resistance, and soil infiltration. This study revealed that the higher severity impact of recreational activities on soil compaction was parallel with higher disturbance intensity, particularly in EW and TH. In these particular locations, higher soil compaction is significantly linked to lower soil infiltration, thus needing extra attention and protection. Meanwhile, in WS, PT, and EB, soil infiltration was more controlled by the establishment of a cemented topsoil layer consisting of mixed sand, sulfur, and water. Better management strategies, such as the use of proper trails and road infrastructures, particularly on EW and TH, might be relevant to minimize the impact of recreational activities on these ecologically, economically, and culturally important areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to understanding ecological changes in land use following slash-and-burn land clearing. This study aimed to compare the richness and density of plant species and soil fertility in farmland cultivated for one year (1 Y), three years (3 Y), and five years (5 Y) after slash-andburn, with the conditions in the secondary forest (SF) in Berau Regency of East Kalimantan. Understory plant taxon types, numbers, and soil organic matter were measured in each region using a series of nested plots. The size of each observation plot was 20 x 100 m. Data on understory vegetation composition was collected using 1 x 1 m mini plots at 20 sampling points and divided into five blocks, with a 10 m spacing between sampling points on each property. Understory vegetation species and cover percentage, litter cover percentage, open soil percentage, and soil fertility were measured for each observation plot. The results showed that the land cover percentage increased each year during the 5 years transition from secondary forest to farmland. Furthermore, within the 5 years, there was a change in understory species, particularly the presence of grasses and sedges at 3 and 5 years after the land use change. However, the transition from secondary forest to farmland within 5 years did not alter soil organic matter and total nitrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuFeO2 nanoparticles were decorated on biochar by one-step hydrothermal method to form the CuFeO2 /BC catalyst for persulfate (PS) activation and application of CuFeO2/BC in sulfadiazine (SDZ) contaminated soil was explored in this study. The influence of some key factors such as catalyst doses, PS concentration, initial pH and different soil types on degradation of SDZ were investigated. The results showed that CuFeO2/BC system has better catalytic performance and PS utilization efficiency compared with the pure CuFeO2. Under the condition of CuFeO2/BC dosage of 8 g/kg and PS addition of 3 g/kg, 91.72% SDZ (initial concentration of 20 mg/kg) could be removed from the soil within 120 minutes. Furthermore, the mechanism of the CuFeO2/BC/PS system was revealed by quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests. It demonstrated that active species (SO4•-, HO•, O2•-) were involved in SDZ degradation, the weak EPR signal confirmed the existence of 1O2 but not participated in the degradation of SDZ. The steady-state concentrations of HO• and SO4•- were calculated by using free radical probes. Afterwards, the contribution rates of SO4•-, HO•, O2•- to the degradation of SDZ were obtained to be 43.89%, 32.87%, and 23.24%, respectively. Combined X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the high catalytic efficiency was attributed to the synergistic effect of Cu+/Cu2+ and Fe2+/Fe3+ redox cycles. These findings help to achieve more comprehensive understanding of the heterogeneous activation process of PS by CuFeO2 /BC to degrade SDZ in actual contaminated sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the degradation efficiency, optimal degradation conditions and soil properties of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) by zero-valent iron (ZVI) -activated persulfate (PS), the effects of initial pH value, soil soil ratio, PS concentration, ZVI addition amount and reaction time on DEHP degradation efficiency were studied by single factor and orthogonal experiments. The effects of oxidation system on soil physicochemical properties and available nutrients were also discussed.The results showed that the influence degree of five factors on DEHP degradation rate was PS > initial pH > ZVI addition amount > soil and water ratio > reaction time. When the initial pH was 3, water/soil ratio 4:1, PS concentration was 1 mmol /g, ZVI dosage was 0.5 mmol /g and reaction time was 80 min, DEHP degradation rate was in the range of 75.12%-80%, the degradation effect was best. ZVI/PS oxidation system had a great influence on soil properties. With the increase of PS concentration, soil pH and soil organic matter content showed different degrees of decrease, and soil electrical conductivity and REDOX potential showed an increasing trend. When PS and ZVI were added at the same time, the available nitrogen content increased significantly. Adding ZVI or PS to soil solution alone significantly increased the content of available phosphorus, but when adding PS and ZVI to soil solution at the same time, the content of available phosphorus decreased sharply. When the concentration ratio of ZVI or PS was greater than or equal to 1, the content of available potassium decreases sharply, by 76%. The effect of oxidant addition on soil properties should be fully evaluated in the actual remediation of PAEs contaminated soil. This study can provide theoretical and practical basis for the removal of DEHP in soil environmental media by ZVI-activated PS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of areas prone to soil erosion in ungauged river basins is crucial for timely preventive measures, as erosion causes significant damage by lowering soil productivity and filling reservoirs with sedimentation. This study proposes a novel approach to prioritize sub-watersheds (SWs) in Ponnaniyar river basin. It utilizes different combinations of five objective-based weighting methods and seven Multi-criteria Decision Making (MCDM) techniques under outranking and synthesis methods with soil loss, morphometry, land use/land cover (LULC), and topography parameters. The results obtained from different hybrid models are validated using metrics like percentage and intensity of change. The findings reveal that MW-PROMETHEE (53.85%) and CRITIC-WASPAS (8.31) perform best in prioritizing areas based on morphometry, while CRITIC-TOPSIS (48.35% and 7.58) is more effective in prioritizing areas based on land use/land cover (LULC) and topography. The grade average method is used to integrate the rankings from 71 models: 35 based on morphometry, 35 based on LULC, and 1 based on the RUSLE model. The analysis identifies SW2 with a grade value of 4.34 as severely affected by soil erosion, followed by SW11 (5.45), SW5 (5.56), and SW9 (5.68), all falling within the very high priority level. This study recommends implementing appropriate water harvesting structures, which might be helpful in mitigating soil degradation, promoting soil conservation, and ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Droughts can affect forest ecosystems and lead to soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and desertification. Not all regions of Mexico are affected in the same way, as some areas are naturally more prone to drought due to their geographical location. Therefore, the objective of this work was to carry out a spatio-temporal analysis of the occurrence of droughts (severe and extreme) in Mexican forest systems, covering the period 2000–2021, and to study the area covered by these events in Mexican forest systems. This analysis was divided into three stages: the classification of land use and vegetation, spatial mapping and the classification of drought intensity, and an analysis of drought frequency and probability in forest systems. The results show that more than 46% of Mexico's forest area experienced severe and extreme droughts during the 21-year period studied. Broadleaved forests were most affected by severe and extreme droughts, with a frequency of 6 years. The increasing frequency of droughts poses a major challenge to the resilience of forest ecosystems in Mexico, highlighting the need to implement climate change adaptation and forest management measures to protect the country's biodiversity and natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, biodegradable active films were designed by adding ZnO-NPs to the quince seed mucilage/chitosan matrix. The films were investigated for characterization and in vitro bioactivity. According to the results, a significant decrease in moisture content, water holding capacity and light (L*) occurred with the addition of ZnO-NP. (p < 0.05). FT-IR spectra showed the interaction between ZnO-NPs and N-H quince seed mucilage and chitosan groups. Nanocomposite films containing ZnO-NP showed improved thermal stability. The developed bionanocomposite films were easily buried in soil and subjected to degradation. The minimum degradation of the film in soil after 20 days was 62.02%. The maximum cell viability (%) of C/ZnO-NP and C/QSM/ZnO-NP films were determined as 86.81% and 91.22%, respectively, and the films were found to be non-toxic. Moreover, while the quince seed mucilage film did not show antibacterial performance, chitosan and ZnO NPs showed antibacterial effects against the tested bacteria Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 7644) and Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ATCC 35,150). In this context, the design bionanocomposite films can be used as an active food packaging material for food preservation by controlling food-borne pathogens. In addition, the developed films do not pose a threat to the environment and therefore have great potential for the sustainable food packaging industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Anthropogenic activities are a major driver of soil and land degradation. Due to the spatial heterogeneity of soil properties and the global nature of most value chains, the modelling of the impacts of land use on soil quality for application in life cycle assessment (LCA) requires a regionalised assessment with global coverage. This paper proposes an approach to quantify the impacts of land use on soil quality, using changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks as a proxy, following the latest recommendation of the Life Cycle Initiative. Methods: An operational set of SOC-based characterisation factors for land occupation and land transformation were derived using spatial datasets (1 km resolution) and aggregated at the national and global levels. The developed characterisation factors were tested by means of a case study analysis, investigating the impact on soil quality caused by land use activities necessary to provide three alternative energy supply systems for passenger car transport (biomethane, ethanol, and solar electricity). Results obtained by applying characterisation factors at local, regional, and national levels were compared, to investigate the role of the level of regionalisation on the resulting impacts. Results and discussion: Global maps of characterisation factors are presented for the 56 land use types commonly used in LCA databases, together with national and global values. Urban and industrial land uses present the highest impacts on SOC stocks, followed by severely degraded pastures and intensively managed arable lands. Instead, values obtained for extensive pastures, flooded crops, and urban green areas often report an increase in SOC stocks. Results show that the ranking of impacts of the three energy systems considered in the case study analysis is not affected by the level of regionalisation of the analysis. In the case of biomethane energy supply, impacts assessed using national characterisation factors are more than double those obtained with local characterisation factors, with less significant differences in the other two cases. Conclusions: The integration of soil quality aspects in life cycle impact assessment methods is a crucial challenge due to the key role of soil conservation in ensuring food security and environmental protection. This approach allows the quantification of land use impacts on SOC stocks, taken as a proxy of soil quality. Further research needs to improve the assessment of land use impacts in LCA are identified, such as the ability to reflect the effects of agricultural and forestry management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water ecosystem food (WEF) nexus duly acknowledges the complex interdependencies among water, ecosystems, and food production, underscoring nature based solutions (NBS) as an efficacious strategy for navigating these interconnections. In this research, four different NBS (terraces, riparian forest, livestock management and agro ecological practices) were assessed in terms of their impact to WEF nexus. The Karst-SWAT and the one-dimensional integrated critical zone (1D-ICZ) models were used to simulate the impact of NBS on water quantity and quality as well as on soil ecosystem services of Koiliaris River Basin, which serves as an illustrative example of a basin that has experienced severe soil and biodiversity degradation. The Karst-SWAT model showed that a combination of NBS of terraces and riparian forest can reduce soil erosion and the sediment load by 97%. The 1D-ICZ model successfully simulated the soilplant-water system and showed that agro ecological practices affect biomass production, carbon and nutrient sequestration, soil structure and geochemistry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin is an important component of plant fiber raw materials, and is a three-dimensional network structure aromatic polymer with abundant resources and a complex structure in nature. Lignin is generally used as industrial waste, and its potential value has not been fully utilized. Modern agriculture extensively uses chemical fertilizers, leading to the gradual degradation of soil fertility and structure, which seriously affects crop growth, nutrient transport, and root respiration function. Based on soil bulk density, porosity, aggregates, and their stability indicators, this study analyzed the effects of aminated industrial lignin and its loading with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on soil structure improvement and plant growth. It was hoped that resource-rich lignin could play a beneficial role in improving soil structure and promoting crop growth. The phenolic hydroxyl group of lignin was epoxidized and further aminated to load with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. The results indicated that amine-modified lignin could effectively load with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. The application of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi-supported aminated lignin to soil aggregate structure improvement greatly reduced the bulk density of soil, and increased the porosity of soil and the content of large granular soil. Compared with unmodified soil, soil bulk density decreased by 73.08%, the porosity of soil increased by 70.43%, and the content of large granular soil increased by 56.38%. Using the improved soil for corn cultivation efficiently increased the biomass of corn. The plant height was increased by 72.16%, the root–shoot ratio was increased by 156.25%, and other indexes were also improved to varying degrees. The experimental method provides an important basis for the effective utilization of lignin materials in agriculture in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the perspective of project and paper datasets, research frontier recognition in the field of agricultural resources and the environment using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic extraction model was studied. By combining the wisdom of domain experts to judge the similarities and differences of clustering topics between the two data sources, multidimensional indicators, such as the emerging degree, attention degree, innovation degree, and intersection degree, were comprehensively constructed for frontier identification. The methods for hot research frontiers, emerging research frontiers, extinction research frontiers, and potential research frontiers were proposed. The empirical research in the field of agricultural resources and the environment showed that the "interaction mechanism of plant–rhizosphere–microbial diversity" was a hot research frontier in the years 2016–2021. The themes of "wastewater treatment technology and efficient utilization of water resources", the "value-added utilization of agricultural wastes and sustainable development", the "soil ecological response mechanism under agronomic management measures", and the "mechanism of soil landslide, erosion, degradation and prediction evaluation" were judged as potential research frontiers. The theme of "ecosystems management and pollution control of agricultural and animal husbandry" was recognized as an emerging research frontier. The results confirm that the fusion method of extracting topics from project and paper data, combined with expert intelligence and frontier indicators for fine classification of frontiers, is an optional approach. This study provides strong support for accurately identifying the forefront of scientific research, grasping the latest research progress, efficiently allocating scientific and technological resources, and promoting technological innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising use of plastic results in an appalling amount of waste which is scattered into the environment. One of these plastics is PET which is mainly used for bottles. We have identified and characterized an esterase from Streptomyces, annotated as LipA, which can efficiently degrade the PET-derived oligomer BHET. The Streptomyces coelicolorScLipA enzyme exhibits varying sequence similarity to several BHETase/PETase enzymes, including IsPETase, TfCut2, LCC, PET40 and PET46. Of 96 Streptomyces strains, 18% were able to degrade BHET via one of three variants of LipA, named ScLipA, S2LipA and S92LipA. SclipA was deleted from S. coelicolor resulting in reduced BHET degradation. Overexpression of all LipA variants significantly enhanced BHET degradation. All variants were expressed in E. coli for purification and biochemical analysis. The optimum conditions were determined as pH 7 and 25 °C for all variants. The activity on BHET and amorphous PET film was investigated. S2LipA efficiently degraded BHET and caused roughening and indents on the surface of PET films, comparable to the activity of previously described TfCut2 under the same conditions. The abundance of the S2LipA variant in Streptomyces suggests an environmental advantage towards the degradation of more polar substrates including these polluting plastics. A comprehensive study on the identification and characterization of PETase-like enzymes in Streptomyces indicates the presence of strain specific variants of a conserved BHET-degrading esterase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an urgent demand to change our intensive crop production systems, replacing them with soil use and management systems that recover, preserve, or improve soil health and are environmentally sustainable, producing healthy and good-quality food. In this work, we compile and present strategies and public policies aimed toward soil and water conservation and food production in Brazil. The results presented may help Brazilian farmers adopt practices to recover, maintain, or improve soil health and politicians to create or modify public policies for healthy soil and food, without the necessity of increasing agricultural areas. Food insecurity was also addressed, with family farming playing an important role in food production and decreasing food insecurity. But these challenges need the combined efforts and engagement of the whole society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) system reliability and durability investigations are essential for industrial maturity and economic success. Recently, PV systems received much interest in Iraq due to many reasons—for instance, power shortage, global warming and pollution. Despite this interest, the precise economic implications of PV system reliability in harsh climates like Iraq remain uncertain. This work assesses the economic implications of PV system component reliability and soiling in Iraq using field experience and historical data. This study identifies the most common failure modes of PV systems installed in Iraq and similar climatic regions, and also ranks their severity. Simulations explore scenarios of PV module degradation rates, inverter lifetimes, soiling rates, and cleaning intervals, revealing that soiling has the most detrimental effect, with cleaning frequency leading to Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) losses of over 30%, depending on the location. Inverter lifetime contributes to LCOE losses between 4 and 6%, depending on the PV system's location. This study also evaluates the impact of tilt angle as a mitigation strategy for reducing soiling loss and its economic implications, finding that installing PV modules at higher tilt angles could reduce the economic impact of soiling by approximately 4.4%. Additionally, the optimal cleaning strategy identified is fully automated dry cleaning with robots, outperforming other strategies economically. Overall, the findings highlight that the LCOE in Iraq is relatively high compared to the global weighted average for utility-scale PV systems, primarily due to high soiling and degradation rates. The LCOE varies within the country, influenced by different degradation rates. This study aims to assist PV stakeholders in Iraq and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in accurately estimating solar bankability; moreover, increasing reliability by minimizing the technical and financial risks by considering key parameters specific to these regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar, a black carbon material produced by high‐temperature, low‐oxygen pyrolysis of organic solids, can improve soil properties and realize carbon neutrality. However, how to effectively produce and apply biochar in the face of the complex soil environment and intractable widespread land degradation is still uncertain. This review is based on 1073 sets of data in 316 publications to address this issue. Firstly, the impact of different process parameters, namely feedstocks, pyrolysis temperature and activation on physicochemical properties of biochar are systematically summarized. Secondly, the effect of biochar on different soil degradation problems are reviewed from the perspective of the interaction between the physicochemical properties of biochar and soil characteristics. The "matching" of biochar properties, level of degradation and environmental factors can be used to design the desired biochar. Finally, future research should focus on biochar aging and costs and benefits of using biochar. The concept of "artificial intelligence designed biochar" is discussed to improve the degree of automation in biochar production and the predictability and suitability of its application for specific cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demands for food, driven by shrinking arable land areas and a growing population, underscore the need for innovative agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of soil degradation due to salinity and promote food security, particularly in regions heavily impacted by salinity. In this study, we investigated the effects of inoculating the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) Rhizophagus clarus on the productivity of Vigna unguiculata cv. BRS Imponente plants in response to salinity (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mM). We found that NaCl concentrations ≥ 50 mM were phytotoxic, reducing plant growth and productivity. However, inoculation with AMF reduced plant oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide concentration and lipid peroxidation) and ionic stress (Na+/K+ ratio). Inoculated plants exhibited increased antioxidant enzyme activity (ascorbate peroxidase and catalase), higher P and K concentrations, and lower Na concentrations in their leaves. As a result, salt did not interfere with grain production in the AMF-inoculated plants. For the first time, we demonstrate that inoculation with R. clarus can counteract the harmful effects of NaCl in V. unguiculata plants, ensuring their grain yields. Therefore, amid the escalating soil salinization globally, the AMF R. clarus emerges as a practical approach to ensure cowpea yields and enhance production in deteriorating agricultural lands, especially in saline areas. This can significantly contribute to promoting food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agricultural frontier in the Semi-arid Pampas Region of Argentina has expanded into marginal environments, resulting in the current reactivation of wind erosion hotspots and desertification processes. Zoning based on soil quality indicators (SQI) reveals differences in soil degradation. The aim of this study was to define zones based on the susceptibility of sandy soils to wind erosion in a 1,4 million hectare plain in the Pampa Medanosa at the south of Cordoba province, Argentina. Soil quality indicators related to wind erosion (erodible fraction (FE), organic carbon (CO) and clay and silt contents, and dry structural stability) were analyzed in samples from 0-5 cm depth at 283 sites. Spatial principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis were performed to group sites with similar characteristics and define subregions based on erosion susceptibility. Four subregions (SR) with different susceptibility were identified: SR-I, with the highest potential wind erosion rate (EEP) (65 t. ha-1. year-1), the lowest CO values (10.95 g.kg-1), and the highest FE, 41%, which is above the permissible threshold (40%); SR-II, the largest in extension, with an EEP of 51 t. ha-1. year-1, showed a FE of 36% and 12.47 g.kg-1 of CO; SR-III, with an EEP of 35 t. ha-1. year-1, 31% FE, and 13 g.kg-1 of CO; SR-VI, with an EEP of 20 t. ha-1. year-1, 30% more CO than SR-I, 14.26 g.kg-1, and a FE of 27%. The results have allowed understanding that the Pampa Medanosa is a heterogeneous region where it is necessary to implement wind erosion mitigation techniques and respect the soil's potential use in each subregion to achieve sustainable agricultural production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplementary irrigation with water of dubious quality can have adverse effects on soil properties. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of supplementary irrigation on soil chemical and physical properties in fields of the Southwestern Buenos Aires province, which generally involve seed production. The surface texture of the soil ranges from sandy loam to loam and clay loamy. The treatments were: Rainfed (corner) and Irrigated (center pivot). Soil samples were collected from 41 field situations at 0-10 cm and 10-20 cm depth, and organic carbon (CO), pH, electrical conductivity (CE), and exchangeable sodium percentage (PSI) were determined. In 12 of the fields, additional measurements were made for infiltration rate, bulk density (0-5 cm and 10-15 cm, Dap), mechanical resistance (0-5 cm and 10-15 cm, RM), and gravimetric moisture content (0-5 cm and 10-15 cm, HG). Data were analyzed using Paired t-tests. Organic carbon content was similar under Rainfed and Irrigated situations at both depths. Soil pH, CE, and PSI at 0-10 cm and 10-20 cm showed a statistically significant increase due to irrigation (p < 0.05), with the order of increase being PSI > CE > pH. The infiltration rate showed no significant differences (p=0.683) between Rainfed and Irrigated, with high variability in situations under irrigation. However, irrigated situations had a 6% higher Dap compared to Rainfed ones (p=0.0005) at 10-15 cm. RM values displayed significant variability. The assessments of soil physical quality conducted in this study did not reveal clear trends or pronounced soil degradation. Nevertheless, it is necessary to continue monitoring the long-term soil quality and implement preventive practices to promote sustainable management of these productive systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increasing global population and limited land resources, continuous cropping has become common. However, after a few years of continuous cropping, obstacles often arise that cause soil degeneration, decreased crop yield and quality, and increased disease incidence, resulting in significant economic losses. It is essential to understand the causes and mitigation mechanisms of continuous cropping obstacles (CCOs) and then develop appropriate methods to overcome them. This review systematically summarizes the causes and mitigation measures of soil degradation in continuous cropping through a meta-analysis. It was concluded that not all continuous cropping systems are prone to CCOs. Therefore, it is necessary to grasp the principles governing the occurrence of diseases caused by soilborne pathogens in different cropping systems, consider plant-soil-organisms interactions as a system, scientifically regulate the physical and chemical properties of soils from a systems perspective, and then regulate the structure of microbial food webs in the soil to achieve a reduction in diseases caused by soilborne pathogens and increase crop yield ultimately. This review provides reference data and guidance for addressing this fundamental problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the persistence and degradation of DNA within soil. The goals of this study are to determine the duration of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nuDNA) persistence in soils enriched by surface-level human decomposition and to better understand the contribution of environmental factors. The surface-level decomposition of three human cadavers was documented over 11 weeks. Based on quantitative PCR results, we found nuDNA to persist in soils six weeks post-placement, while mtDNA was recoverable for the entire 11-week decomposition period. Principle components analyses and Spearman's rank correlations revealed that (1) time, (2) total body score, and (3) weekly average air temperature were significantly correlated with concentrations of nuDNA and mtDNA in soil, suggesting these factors play a role in the degradation of DNA in soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal-bacterial consortia enhance organic pollutant removal, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We used stable isotope probing (SIP) to explore the mechanism of bioaugmentation involved in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) biodegradation in petroleum-contaminated soil by introducing the indigenous fungal strain Aspergillus sp. LJD-29 and the bacterial strain Pseudomonas XH-1. While each strain alone increased phenanthrene (PHE) degradation, the simultaneous addition of both strains showed no significant enhancement compared to treatment with XH-1 alone. Nonetheless, the assimilation effect of microorganisms on PHE was significant ly enhanced. SIP revealed a role of XH-1 in PHE degradation, while the absence of LJD-29 in 13C-DNA indicated a supporting role. The correlations between fungal abundance, degradation efficiency, and soil extracellular enzyme activity indicated that LJD-29, while not directly involved in PHE assimilation, played a crucial role in the breakdown of PHE through extracellular enzymes, facilitating the assimilation of metabolites by bacteria. This observation was substantiated by the results of metabolite analysis. Furthermore, the combination of fungus and bacterium significantly influenced the diversity of PHE degraders. Taken together, this study highlighted the synergistic effects of fungi and bacteria in PAH degradation, revealed a new fungal-bacterial bioaugmentation mechanism and diversity of PAH-degrading microorganisms, and provided insights for in situ bioremediation of PAH-contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings of ecogeomorphological studies conducted in the high-mountain belt of the southern slope of the Main Caucasus Range by utilizing satellite imagery. The investigations reaffirmed the dynamic nature of exogenous relief-forming processes evident in slope surface conditions and the diverse array of natural landscapes in high-mountain regions. The data acquired facilitated the development of measures aimed at enhancing the natural environment and guiding future land use practices. Through this research, various factors contributing to degradation processes were identified, enabling the pinpointing of erosion-prone areas on both slopes of the Greater Caucasus and the formulation of what we believe to be the most optimal anti-erosion measures scheme. Analysis of satellite imagery revealed that some river basins originating from the southern slope of the Main Caucasus Range exhibit the most pronounced soil and vegetation degradation processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Farming activities have changed extensively due to world food production pressure, increasing land occupation for agriculture and livestock. Standardization and simplification of these production systems have been reflected in the degradation of natural resources and compromised land environmental functions. In this sense, integrated production systems are suggested as technologies to mitigate such environmental adverse impacts. However, implementing such systems can be complex due to their different components (crop, livestock, and/or forestry) to be used in rotation or succession. In this context, an appropriate technology transfer method is essential to understand conditions in which farmers are inserted and hence increase the acceptance and appropriation of a given technology or innovation. Therefore, our study aimed to classify the prioritization of livestock activities in an important watershed in the region of Sorocaba city, São Paulo State (Brazil), to receive technology transfer actions to help integrated system implementation. The study was conducted using multicriteria decision analysis in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment. Our findings showed that the analyzed livestock area has a limited technological profile, and the farmers have little access to technical information. Thus, we conclude that institutional and technical actors should strengthen relations with cattle farmers to facilitate technology transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land degradation is one of the major challenges causing food insecurity and instability in Ethiopia. A comprehensive study on trends and drivers of land degradation and, socioeconomic and ecological impact of land degradation is necessary for an effective and sustainable mitigation measures. This study reviewed the drivers, trends and impacts of land degradation, existing sustainable land management (SLM) practices, and policies for land use and resources management. We employed the keyword research acquisition approach to review 122 scientific papers, reports, and other documents. The scientific literatures in the study were accessed through as the Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar search engines, while reports and other additional materials were sourced from a variety of repositories and governmental offices. There has been a substantial increase in soil erosion since the 1980s in the highlands of Ethiopia. Illegal logging, poor land management system, overgrazing of pasturelands, population growth, insecure land tenure, war and conflict, poverty, ineffective government policies and programs, institutional issues, poor rural markets, and low agricultural inputs remained the major drivers for land degradation in Ethiopia causing huge loss of agricultural production and environmental unsustainability. Biological and physical soil and water conservation measures, exclosure establishment, afforestation, and reforestation programs are the most common intervention measures of preventing and restoring degraded lands. SLM practices such as intercropping systems, composting, crop rotation, zero grazing, minimum tillage, agroforestry and rotational grazing has been implemented across the country. However, land security and the absence of clearly defined property rights are the major factors that influence farmers' decisions for a long-term investment on land resources. Thus the SLM practices and various restoration interventions remain a critical requirement to address the growing concerns of land degradation in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most sugarcane cultivation areas in China have undergone over 30 years of continuous monocropping, and long-term chemical fertilizer application has led to severe soil degradation. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) play a crucial role in promoting plant nutrient uptake, enhancing plant stress tolerance, and improving soil quality and restoration. However, in agroecosystems, AMF are susceptible to the effects of cultivation, fertilization, and other factors. The goal of this study was to investigate the influence of chemical fertilization on the AMF community in the rhizosphere soil of plant crop of sugarcane. In this study, sugarcane varieties GT58 and GT29 were selected for experiment. Four different chemical fertilization rates were established using controlled-release compound chemical fertilizer (N: P: K = 17:7:17): T1 (0.0 kg/ha), T2 (562.5 kg/ha), T3 (1,125.0 kg/ha), and T4 (2,250.0 kg/ha). The results showed that different fertilization rates significantly affected the cane yield in GT58. T3 and T4 increased the cane yield by 12.67% and 11.11%, respectively, compared to the control T1 (P < 0.05). The impact on the cane yield in GT29 was not significant. The diversity indices of root-associated AMF in GT58 (Chao index and Shannon index) varied significantly in different fertilization rates. T3 had the highest diversity, showing no significant difference from T1 and T2 but significantly higher than T4. For GT29, there were no significant differences in the diversity indices of root-associated AMF among different fertilization rates. Analyzing the differential species in root-associated soil with different fertilization rates in GT58 at the OTU level revealed that T3 had significantly higher abundances for 5 OTUs compared to the other treatments, and all the differentially abundant species belonged to Glomus. The Mantel analysis revealed that the genus Acaulospora was significantly and positively correlated with millable stalks (P < 0.001), and significantly and positively correlated with tiller number (P < 0.05). The genus Scutellospora showed a significant positive correlation with sprouting rate (P < 0.05). However, the other AMF genera did not show significant correlations with the agronomic traits of sugarcane. In summary, different chemical fertilization rates significantly affected the cane yield in GT58 and the AMF community in the rhizosphere soil, but not in GT29, which suggests that sugarcane chemical fertilization should consider different sugarcane varieties and the diversity of AMF communities in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was examined using two fungal strains, namely P. chrysosporium and P. citrinum, isolated from locally contaminated soil. These two fungal strains were compared based on degradation properties under standardized conditions (pH 7.0, temperature 30oC, carbon source yeast extract) using PAH sole and a mixture of five different PAHs. In liquid media, PAH degradation was higher as compared to spiked soil by P. chrysosporium, followed by P. citrinum. In liquid culture, maximum degradation was 96.13% phenanathrene, 86.34% fluoranthene, 72.75% pyrene, 52.25% chrysene, and 40.16% benzo(a)pyrene by P. chrysosporium. PAH degradation in spiked soil was 78.5% phenanthrene, 65.91% fluoranthene, 61.73% pyrene, 48.2% chrysene, and 26.82% benzo(a)pyrene within 28 days by P. chrysosporium. Both local fungal isolates showed potential for degradation of PAHs alone and in PAH mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a context of land shortage with high rates of land degradation and soil erosion due to unsustainable agriculture practices in Burundi, vocational agriculture education needs to prioritize competencies that enable graduates to be effective change-agents in addressing sustainable agriculture challenges. This study aimed at identifying context-relevant competencies for change-agents to be able to foster sustainable agriculture. The paper used the Delphi technique to collect data from 28 experts (comprising of 14 teachers and 14 practitioners). The findings identified 11 context-relevant competencies that are considered by experts to be most important for change-agents working on sustainable agriculture. The competence 'facilitator of change' was found to be most relevant and the recommendation is that it should be prioritized in vocational agriculture education curriculum design. Other competencies, such as innovation and creativity, planning, system thinking, domain expertise, continuous learning, interdisciplinarity, and leadership, were also indicated as highly relevant. The competencies stewardship, self-determination and engagement were considered to be comparatively less important, although still relevant. The findings of this study provide insight so that the curricula of vocational agriculture schools can be designed around forming a competence-based education model toward fostering sustainable agriculture. The paper contributes to sustainability competence theory by taking the debate to the domain of vocational agriculture education within the context of Burundi. The study utilized the Delphi process to capture the context-relevance of sustainable agriculture competencies that need to be prioritized in vocational agriculture education in Burundi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we performed a preliminary soil analysis and collected environmental data for the Dulcepamba River Basin in Bolivar–Ecuador, before carrying out its hydrological restoration (HR). A geographic information system (GIS) and the multicriterion Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) decision-making method were used. The comprehensive evaluation included morphological aspects, soil properties, climatic conditions, vegetation, and land use. The terrain conditions were investigated using indicators such as the flow capacity, topographic moisture, soil resistance, sediment transport, current density, curve number, NDVI, precipitation, and distance to rivers. The results and analysis are presented in a series of maps, which establish a starting point for the HR of the Dulcepamba watershed. The key factors for assessing soil degradation in the watershed include land use, vegetation cover, sedimentation, humidity, and precipitation. Of the studied territory, 10.7 do not require HR, while 20.28% demand HR in the long term. In addition, 30.67% require HR in the short term, and 33.35% require HR immediately. Based on the findings, it is suggested that authorities consider the environmental remediation of the watershed and propose various HR measures. This analytical approach could prove valuable as a tool for the environmental restoration of watersheds in Ecuador. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys heterocycla cv. Pubescens) is known for its high capacity to sequester atmospheric carbon (C), which has a unique role to play in the fight against global warming. However, due to rising labor costs and falling bamboo prices, many Moso bamboo forests are shifting to an extensive management model without fertilization, resulting in gradual degradation of Moso bamboo forests. However, many Moso bamboo forests are being degraded due to rising labor costs and declining bamboo timber prices. To delineate the effect of degradation on soil microbial carbon sequestration, we instituted a rigorous analysis of Moso bamboo forests subjected to different degradation durations, namely: continuous management (CK), 5 years of degradation (D-5), and 10 years of degradation (D-10). Our inquiry encompassed soil strata at 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm, scrutinizing alterations in soil organic carbon(SOC), water-soluble carbon(WSOC), microbial carbon(MBC)and microbial residues. We discerned a positive correlation between degradation and augmented levels of SOC, WSOC, and MBC across both strata. Furthermore, degradation escalated concentrations of specific soil amino sugars and microbial residues. Intriguingly, extended degradation diminished the proportional contribution of microbial residuals to SOC, implying a possible decline in microbial activity longitudinally. These findings offer a detailed insight into microbial C processes within degraded bamboo ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil degradation is a global problem. Over the last several decades, the effects of land degradation in Tunisia are starting to have increasingly serious socio-economic and environmental repercussions. The agricultural sector is most seriously affected. The Tunisian Sahel, despite its modest topographical conditions, has not escaped this threat, especially upstream of the El Maasra Wadi. The fertile soils and homogeneous topography of this area, which dates to Roman times, are highly favorable to a wide range of agricultural practices. The Central Sahel has a long history of olive-growing, followed by a shift to irrigated farming in the 1970s. Today, it is given a multifunctional and multidimensional importance due to the complexity of conflicts of interest between different users. Rural abandonment, mining activity and pastoral pressure have all been behind the soil crisis, which is still largely unknown in detail in terms of the processes involved, the mechanisms behind them and the pace at which they are occurring. Today, there is an urgent need for tools and reliable methods to diagnose the state of soils, to elucidate the various facets of erosive processes and create the structural conditions necessary for their preservation. In the same vein, this research project was initiated in the Wadi El Maasra watershed to quantify soil losses using two methods: empirical model (USLE equation) and experimental based on the isotopic tracer of the Caesium-137. The two methods showed an almost identical geographical distribution, but slightly different loss rates. The specific soil loss obtained from the USLE model was of the order of 15 t ha-1 year-1, which appears to be largely underestimated compared with the loss rate obtained by the Caesium-137 method, which was of the order of 32 t ha-1 year-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the most effective application method of guayule resin and its effects on termite and fungal decay biological performances of wood strand-based (WSB) panels were explored. Southern yellow pine (Pinus spp. L.) wood strands were mixed with phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin to a target resin content of 5.00% and hot-pressed to manufacture the control WSB panels. For the in-situ process, a guayule resin solution was prepared and sprayed on the wood strands immediately after spraying the PF resin to a target content of 5.00%. For brushing and spraying methods, a sub-set of the control panel specimens were further brushed or sprayed with guayule resin solution on all surfaces. To understand the effects of guayule on durability, specimens cut from control and treated panels were subjected to termite resistance and fungal degradation soil block tests. The in-situ specimens with 5.00% guayule were subjected to tensile, internal bond, water absorption, and thickness swelling tests to find out whether guayule affects the mechanical performance of WSB panels. The results showed that in-situ treatment resulted in a significant reduction in the mechanical properties of wood stand-based panels. The sprayed technique resulted in more durable panels, as the mass loss was 2.21% for termites and 3.24% for fungi specimens, which decreased by 76.66% and 80.86%, respectively, when compared to the WSB controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil compaction is generally viewed as one of the most serious soil degradation problems and a determining factor in crop productivity worldwide. It is imperative to understand the processes involved in soil compaction to meet the future global challenges of food security. In this work, we used co‐occurring keyword analysis to summarize 3491 papers on soil compaction over the past 40 years, elaborating on the main research focuses such as the causes, influencing factors, and effects of soil compaction on crops, and the mitigation and prevention of soil compaction. This review provides a comprehensive discussion of the effects of soil compaction, including altering soil structure, increasing bulk density (BD) and penetration resistance (PR), and reducing porosity and soil hydraulic properties. Notably, based on the 387 data points of 11 papers about BD, our results demonstrated soil compaction on average, increased BD by 7.6%, 6.9%, and 3.2% in the medium‐, coarse‐, and fine‐textured soils, respectively. Based on the 264 data points of 18 papers, in the 0–30 cm soil layer, compaction increased penetration resistance (by 91% in the coarse‐textured, 84.2% in the medium‐textured, and 8.8% in the fine‐textured soils). Compacted soil limits the access of crop roots to water and nutrients, leading to poor root development and reduced crop productivity. There was a difference in soil compaction sensitivity between the different crops, but crop growth and yield showed an overall worsening trend with increasing degrees of compaction. This review collected data points on 142 crop yields and found that wheat, barley, corn, and soybean yields decreased by an average of 4.1%, 15.1%, 37.7%, and 22.7%, respectively, in the BD range of 1.1–1.8 Mg/cm3 after compaction. Additionally, the effectiveness of different compaction mitigation measures, including natural, tillage, and biological, is systematically discussed. Compared with soil compaction mitigation measures, prevention should be the top priority although there is still a lack of practical prevention methods. Soil conditions and agricultural machinery type are the main factors affecting the risk of soil compaction in the process of soil compaction. Therefore, it is particularly important to optimize the soil working conditions in the field and the type of farm machinery used to reduce the risk of soil compaction. This initiative is pivotal for ensuring sustainable systems for food production and recovering crop productivity from compacted soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land degradation and soil contamination have become global problem due to irresponsible anthropogenic activities and the overutilization of natural resources by humans. Land degradation and contamination due to toxic heavy metals have adversely impacted not only crop productivity but also the overall environmental health of our planet. Mitigation and management of polluted land are urgently required to achieve the goal of sustainable development because of the continuous human population explosion. In recent years, the biodiversity under phytoremediation is gaining scientists' attention for utilizing polluted lands and obtaining a bio‐based economy aimed at economically valuable and nonedible native plants. In the present review, we have focused on the biodiversity prospecting and phytoremediation potentials of economically important native plants, which may open up new horizons for sustainable development and redevelopment of polluted land sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the research on the deterioration of soil properties under the influence of wind erosion in the "Todakol massivi" in the northern part of Qorovulbazar district of Bukhara region. In particular, the effects of natural stress factors on the growth and development of pasture plants such as white haloxylon (Haloxylon persicum L.), black haloxylon (Haloxylon aphyllum L.), sagebrush (Artemisia tenuisecta L.), tamarisk (Tamarix hispida L.), harmel (Peganum harmala L.), seta (Salsola sclerantha L.), alhagi (Alhagi sparsifolia L.), sagebrush (Salsola arbuscula L.), black redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexuss L.), sedges (Carex physodes L.), downy brome (Bmomus tectorum L.), barley (Eremopyrum Orientale L.), salty crabgrass (Aeluropus litoralis L.), alhagi (Alhagi psudoalhagi L.), which are widespread in the region, are highlighted. In particular, soil erosion due to the wind in the area and the amount of easily soluble salts in water were determined and analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Keduang Sub-Watershed area has faced multiple natural disasters like landslides, erosion, and flooding because of the poorly managed terrain in the area. This study examines the distribution of the slaking index on agricultural land in the Keduang Sub-Watershed, analyzes the impact of soil type on it, and identifies the soil physical elements that have the most significant influence on it. The study took place in the Keduang Sub-Watershed, Indonesia, utilizing agricultural land from woods, plantations, drylands, and paddy fields with Andisols, Alfisols, Inceptisols, and Entisols soil types. This survey research was supported by laboratory analysis of the soil's physical and chemical properties and used GIS for data interpretation. Soil samples were collected from 22 Land Map Units (LMUs) with 3 replications each, resulting in 66 samples. The SLAKES software assesses the primary parameter, the slaking index. The supporting parameters analyzed were aggregate stability, bulk density, texture, structure, pH, organic C, and Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC). The research showed that soil types in the Keduang Sub-Watershed significantly affect the slaking index value. The slaking index ranged from 0.13-11.63, with the highest values for Andisols in a forest, while the lowest values were Inceptisols in a plantation. The allophane mineral in Andisols was causing the high slaking index. The soil factors determining the slaking index were bulk density and exchangeable K. The lower the bulk density, the higher the slaking index. Meanwhile, the lower the exchangeable K, the lower the slaking index. The land management recommendations based on determinant factors are adding organic material and reducing soil cultivation practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of persistent soil degradation in Benin caused by poor agricultural practices, including excessive use of chemical fertilizers, it is urgent to find solutions that take into account the microorganisms of interest. This study aimed to assess the effect of combining three strains of indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on maize production in northern Benin. The study involved 34 growers in Ouénou, Bagou and Kokey. The experimental setup consisted of three elementary plots with three treatments. Growth parameters were measured every 15 days, from the 15th to the 60th day after sowing, on ten plants per plot. Plant nutritional status, grain yield and mycorrhization were measured. The results showed that biostimulant + 50% NPK_Urea (N = nitrogen, P = phosphorus and K = potassium) had similar positive effects on growth parameters to those induced by the application of 100% NPK_Urea. Gains of 30.25% to 36.35% were recorded in plant height at Kokey. On the other hand, biostimulant+ 50% NPK_Urea induced a better phosphorus uptake of 21.08% to 27.77%. In addition, the grain yield of mycorrhizal plants was 8.37% higher than that of plants receiving 100% NPK_Urea at Ouénou. These results show that this technology could be integrated into the agricultural system to promote sustainable maize growing in Benin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture, a vital element of human survival, confronts challenges of meeting rising demand due to population growth and product availability in developing nations. Reliance on pesticides and fertilizers strains natural resources, leading to soil degradation and water scarcity. Addressing these issues necessitates enhancing water efficiency in agriculture. Polymeric hydrogels, with their unique water retention and nutrient-release capabilities, offer promising solutions. These superabsorbent materials form three-dimensional networks retaining substantial amounts of water. Their physicochemical properties suit various applications, including agriculture. Production involves methods like bulk, solution, and suspension polymerization, with cross-linking, essential for hydrogels, achieved through physical or chemical means, each with different advantages. Grafting techniques incorporate functional groups into matrices, while radiation synthesis offers purity and reduced toxicity. Hydrogels provide versatile solutions to tackle water scarcity and soil degradation in agriculture. Recent research explores hydrogel formulations for optimal agricultural performance, enhancing soil water retention and plant growth. This review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of hydrogel technologies as adaptable solutions addressing water scarcity and soil degradation challenges in agriculture, with ongoing research refining hydrogel formulations for optimal agricultural use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuous application of new agricultural chemicals in agricultural systems, it is imperative to study the environmental fate and potential transformation products (TPs) of these chemicals to better assess their ecological and health risks, as well as guide scientific application. The dissipation of fluchloraminopyr was firstly evaluated under aerobic/anaerobic condition in four representative soils, with Dissipation Time 50 (DT50) values ranging from 0.107 to 4.76 days. Eight TPs generated by soil degradation were identified via Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF/MS) and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. The predominant transformation reactions of fluchloraminopyr in soil include oxidation, dechlorination, hydroxylation, and acetylation. The predictions from toxicological software indicated that the acute and chronic toxicity of TPs to aquatic organisms was significantly lower than that of fluchloraminopyr. Moreover, both M267 and M221 exhibited higher acute oral toxicity to terrestrial organisms compared to the parent compound. Consequently, these findings offer essential ecological risk evaluation data for the judicious application of fluchloraminopyr.

Soil degradation affects its quality and productivity of the land. To control soil degradation, various soil and water conservation (SWC) measures, including area closure are implemented. Understanding the impacts of SWC measures could support planning and implementation of land management practices. This study aimed to investigate impacts of area closure on soil properties in south central highland of Ethiopia. To acquire the necessary data, we conducted interviews with 80 households. Furthermore, nine years old area closure with physical soil and water conservation (AC-SWC), open grazing with physical SWC (OG-SWC), and open grazing without physical SWC (OG) were identified and each divided into upper, middle, and lower slope positions. In each slope position, 3 sample plots were established at 25–50 m intervals. A total of 27 composite samples and other 27 core samples for bulk density (3 treatments∗3 slope position∗3 replications) were collected and analyzed for soil properties. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA. The results showed that about 98 % of the respondents perceived that area closure would be an effective way to restore degraded land. Majority of the farmers (86 %) believed that area closure could reduce soil erosion and replenish soil fertility and thus, is beneficial in improving land productivity. Soil test results revealed that AC-SWC had significantly greater (P

Freeze-thaw cycles (FTCs) extensively and intensely occur in cold regions, significantly affecting soil properties. However, quantifying the impacts of FTCs at different initial conditions on soil properties is challenging due to the complex interactive responses. In this study, porosity, bulk density, field capacity and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) were measured to evaluate the responses of soil to FTCs. Eight FTCs (0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15 and 20 cycles), five initial soil mass water contents (10, 20, 30, 40 and 45 %), four eroded soils (original, degraded, deposited and parent), two initial bulk densities (1.2 and 1.3 g cm−3) and two freezing temperatures (−10 and −15 ℃) were employed to quantify the impacts of FTCs on physical properties. Results showed that repeated FTCs had a cumulative effect on soil physical properties, which generally entered a steady state after 10–15 FTCs. Changes in soil physical properties were highlighted after the initial 1–3 FTCs, and the effects of FTCs on physical properties diminished when the soil water content was below 20 %. Soil physical properties with different initial conditions responded differently to FTCs. Porosity increased with FTCs in increments ranging from about 0.2 to 8.7 %; however, the opposite result was observed when the initial soil water content exceeded 30 %. The bulk density decreased by 1.1–3.7 % with increasing FTCs, whereas the bulk density of the soils with high water content and severe soil erosion increased by 0.2–7.5 %. Compared to the initial state, the field capacity decreased by 0.1–15.3 % after 20 FTCs; however, the field capacity increased by 10.4 % under high bulk density. The Ks increased by 21.8–249.5 % with the increase of FTCs, whereas the Ks of the soils with 40 % and 45 % water content decreased by 28.7 % and 90.4 %, respectively. Overall, soil physical properties responded more strongly to FTCs at high water content, severe soil erosion, moderate bulk density and low freezing temperature. In comparison, the degree of soil erosion was the most critical factor influencing soil physical properties. These findings can help to improve the understanding of soil dynamic processes and provide new insight into mechanisms of erosion caused by seasonal FTCs.

Flood sedimentation in conditions of regular floodplain flooding is a key factor in the formation of alluvial soil. The nature of the passage of hollow waters and their composition affect the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of flood sediments, while having a significant impact on the agroecological state of the floodplain agricultural landscape. The aim of the research was to study the role of flood sediments in enriching the underlying alluvial soil with nutrients. The experiment was conducted on reclaimed arable lands of the Ryazan region in 2023. Determination of the sediment load level and sampling on the surface were carried out using plastic sedimentation samplers fixed on the soil surface, located at a distance of 200 m from each other. The installation was carried out on March 23, the duration of sediment collection was 42 days before the descent of the hollow waters. The average sediment load level of 15.4 t/ha was established, the agrochemical properties of flood sediments and underlying soil were studied, the structure of organic matter, macro– and microelements with flood sediments and their removal from the corn harvest to silage was analyzed. Together with sediments the soil received (kg/ha): total nitrogen – 107.80, total phosphorus – 43.10, total potassium – 104.70, organic matter – 2464,0, mobile phosphorus 15.20, exchangeable potassium 17.80; trace elements (g/ha): boron – 11.86, molybdenum – 1.54, zinc – 122.74, manganese – 1215.06, copper – 200.20, cobalt – 52.05. With a corn harvest for silage of 36.1 kg/ha, the takeaway was: N – 105 kg/ha, P2O5 – 33 kg/ha, K2O – 105 kg/ha. The conducted studies indicate the undoubted agronomic value of flood sediments, they can partially meet the need for fertilizers, therefore, it is necessary to take into account the mass of the substances used to carry out appropriate adjustments to the fertilizer application system. In 2023, the mass of incoming substances with flood sediments completely covered the need for nitrogen; for mobile phosphorus the need decreased to 17.8 kg/ha, for exchangeable potassium the need decreased to 87.2 kg/ha.

The current diagnostic agronomy study of the Bankura region of West Bengal, India, examined the variations in crop yields through a socio-ecological analysis of multiple production system components. Envirotyping for root cause analysis was employed to delve into the variables that affect the performance of rainfed production systems. Mother Earth, man, machine, management, and materials (5Ms concept) were the five indicators under which the variables were grouped. Findings demonstrated the fragility of the region’s soils due to its undulating terrain, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and frequent drought scenarios. The LULC’s NDVI showed that the agricultural area is about 60% and 43% of the total geographical area in the Hirbandh and Ranibandh blocks, respectively. Soils are acidic and diagnosed with deficiency of both macro and micronutrients (phosphorous, sulfur, and boron) having poor water holding capacity (35 to 55 mm for a 50 cm soil depth). The sand and soil organic carbon contents ranged between 43.04%–82.32% and 0.17%–1.01%, respectively with a low bacterial population. These factors are the root cause for low cropping intensity (106%) and low paddy productivity (3,021 kg/ha). Overall, the study contributes to designing and scaling-up of sustainable landscape management practices that could ensure higher cropping intensity and system productivity in similar agro-ecologies with limited evidence.

Disposal of used motor oil and chemical substances on land leads to loss in soil quality by minimal abundance and variety of microorganisms in soil. The objective of this paper was to evalaute the physicochemical parameters, total bacteria count and some heavy metal levels in soil from automobile workshop activities at Nnewi Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. Using field survey and appropriate standard laboratory analyses, the results showed that the control uncontaminated soil samples recorded high bacteria count (6.9 x106 cfu/g). The available soil nitrogen(9.0), soil nutrients nitrate (15.10) and phosphorous (17.3) all recorded appropriate values when compared with WHO standard. The acidity of the soil using pH value as an indicator showed that the uncontaminated control soil samples were acceptable for crops also the Ec values. The heavy metals analysed indicates that the control soil samples were also moderate in heavy metals accumulation when compared with the contaminated soil samples particularly Cd, Pb (0.08) and Hg (0.01) while Cd was not detectable. These findings have shown that automobile activities can denature soil properties which could lead to soil infertility. The automobile activities has to be controled by the concerned agencies in Nigeria. Environmental education should be encouraged to reduce effects of anthropogenic activities on soil quality in the study area.

Soil erosion is a major threat to soil security, and therefore to agriculture. To address this challenge, effective strategies are needed to protect soil resources without compromising crop yields. Currently, there are three main players involved: scientists, policymakers, and land managers. However, the technical knowledge required to understand how soil erosion affects food production hinders the communication of the potential benefits of soil sustainability strategies to nontechnical stakeholders, such as farmers and food producers. Moreover, a major player in this fight is still missing, consumers. If there is no connection between soil and society then the soil itself may not be valued and it is less likely to be managed sustainably. In this study, we propose the concept of soil footprint, defined as the ratio of soil loss to crop yield, to communicate, quantify, and compare soil security for different crops. It is a versatile concept that can be applied for a multitude of potential practical uses. To showcase some of these potential uses, we used national data to calculate the soil footprint of the ten main crops in Spain. We demonstrate the utility of this metric to compare and rank crops, identify problematic regions, and assess the effect of land management on the soil footprint. The soil footprint indicator offers advantages in terms of simplicity, facilitating easy calculation, comparison, and interpretation by non-technical users. This can engage society in soil conservation, empower land managers to define sustainable soil management strategies, and promote policies to enhance soil security.

Peatlands play a crucial role in carbon storage, but drainage and climate change-induced hydrological changes drivers degrade peat soils, followed by negative vertical displacement of the soil surface, referred to in the literature as peat subsidence. Assessing peatland subsidence is an important indicator of peatland status that allows the development of peatlands to be revealed over a given period. However, traditional methods are limited in their applicability to large and inaccessible peatlands. In this study, we introduce a remote sensing framework for easily indicating peat subsidence at a large scale. Our framework utilizes the Alaska Satellite Facility (ASF) Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) with on-demand cloud computing, employing an optimization process including a Small Baseline Set technique and seasonal-annual search approach. By implementing this approach in the Biebrza Valley, Poland, covering the period from April 2015 to April 2022, we unveiled a tragedy, an annual subsidence rate of 1.44 cm. It means a peat loss between 58.1 and 89.6 million cubic meters over seven years, an annual loss of 86.4 to 132.5 (average 109) m3, approximately 46 tons, of dry matter peat per hectare. This finding was verified through field surveys, with high accuracy. An R2 value of 0.7, and an RMSE value of 0.23 cm determine the reliability of this approach in estimating the vertical displacement. The potential of this tool as a robust method to assess large-scale peatlands would allow for the assessment of average water levels as well as greenhouse gas emissions over large areas of peatlands, even at the continental scale.