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Hereu-Morales J, Vinardell S, Valderrama C. Towards climate neutrality in the Spanish N-fertilizer sector: A study based on radiative forcing. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174131. [PMID: 38909810 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Agricultural systems in the 21st Century face the double challenge of achieving climate neutrality while maintaining food security. Synthetic fertilizers rich in nitrogen (N-fertilizers) boost agricultural production at the expense of increasing climate impact. Public policies, such as the Farm-to-Fork (F2F) Strategy, aim to reduce the extensive use of N-fertilizers with the ultimate goal of achieving a climate neutral European Union (EU). However, the strong link between N-fertilizers and GHG emissions (i.e., CO2, CH4 and, especially, N2O) highlights the need to better understand the climate impact of this sector. The present study conducts a climate impact analysis of Spanish N-fertilizer sector for two periods: (i) from 1960 to 2020 using real data and (ii) from 2021 to 2100 considering five forecasted scenarios. The scenarios range from business-as-usual practices to a full accomplishment of the goals pursued by the EU's F2F strategy. The system's climate stability and neutrality are analysed for the different scenarios based on radiative forcing (RF) metrics. Additionally, the study evaluates the short-term impact of the EU decarbonization goals on the climate impact of the Spanish N-fertilizer sector. The results of the study illustrate that the long-lasting climate impact of N2O and CO2 emissions compromise the capacity of N-fertilizer sector to achieve climate stability and approach climate neutrality. However, the decarbonisation of transport and N-fertilizer production activities is an important driver to substantially reduce the life cycle CH4 and CO2 emissions in the Spanish N-fertilizer sector. The results also highlight that more severe reductions on N-cycles than those suggested by the EU's F2F are required, especially to reduce the long-lasting N2O emissions in the N-fertilizer sector. Overall, the study concludes that using RF-based metrics increases robustness and transparency of climate assessments, which is necessary for a higher integration of climate science within public policymaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Hereu-Morales
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)-BarcelonaTECH, C/ Eduard Maristany 10-14, Campus Diagonal-Besòs, 08930 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Sergi Vinardell
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)-BarcelonaTECH, C/ Eduard Maristany 10-14, Campus Diagonal-Besòs, 08930 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center for Multiscale Science and Engineering, BarcelonaTECH, Campus Diagonal-Besòs, 08930 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - César Valderrama
- Chemical Engineering Department, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC)-BarcelonaTECH, C/ Eduard Maristany 10-14, Campus Diagonal-Besòs, 08930 Barcelona, Spain; Barcelona Research Center for Multiscale Science and Engineering, BarcelonaTECH, Campus Diagonal-Besòs, 08930 Barcelona, Spain.
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2
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Mahlein AK, Arnal Barbedo JG, Chiang KS, Del Ponte EM, Bock CH. From Detection to Protection: The Role of Optical Sensors, Robots, and Artificial Intelligence in Modern Plant Disease Management. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2024:PHYTO01240009PER. [PMID: 38810274 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-01-24-0009-per] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
In the past decade, there has been a recognized need for innovative methods to monitor and manage plant diseases, aiming to meet the precision demands of modern agriculture. Over the last 15 years, significant advances in the detection, monitoring, and management of plant diseases have been made, largely propelled by cutting-edge technologies. Recent advances in precision agriculture have been driven by sophisticated tools such as optical sensors, artificial intelligence, microsensor networks, and autonomous driving vehicles. These technologies have enabled the development of novel cropping systems, allowing for targeted management of crops, contrasting with the traditional, homogeneous treatment of large crop areas. The research in this field is usually a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary endeavor. It brings together experts from diverse fields such as plant pathology, computer science, statistics, engineering, and agronomy to forge comprehensive solutions. Despite the progress, translating the advancements in the precision of decision-making or automation into agricultural practice remains a challenge. The knowledge transfer to agricultural practice and extension has been particularly challenging. Enhancing the accuracy and timeliness of disease detection continues to be a priority, with data-driven artificial intelligence systems poised to play a pivotal role. This perspective article addresses critical questions and challenges faced in the implementation of digital technologies for plant disease management. It underscores the urgency of integrating innovative technological advances with traditional integrated pest management. It highlights unresolved issues regarding the establishment of control thresholds for site-specific treatments and the necessary alignment of digital technology use with regulatory frameworks. Importantly, the paper calls for intensified research efforts, widespread knowledge dissemination, and education to optimize the application of digital tools for plant disease management, recognizing the intersection of technology's potential with its current practical limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Katrin Mahlein
- Institute of Sugar Beet Research (IfZ), Holtenser Landstrasse 77 37079 Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Kuo-Szu Chiang
- Division of Biometrics, Department of Agronomy, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Emerson M Del Ponte
- Departamento de Fitopatologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG 36570-000, Brazil
| | - Clive H Bock
- U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research Station, Byron, GA 31008, U.S.A
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3
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Vives-Vallés JA, Corujo M, Pla M, Galmés J. Coexistence field trials between MON810 and conventional maize in Mallorca as a basis for a regional regulatory proposal based on scientific evidence in the times of genome editing. Transgenic Res 2024; 33:119-130. [PMID: 38713283 PMCID: PMC11176244 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-024-00384-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
This paper reports the first coexistence field trials between transgenic and conventional maize carried out under Mediterranean island conditions. Their purpose was to assess the local validity of pollen barriers and sowing delays as coexistence strategies as a basis for a regional regulation on the subject. Two field trials were performed in two agricultural states of Alcudia and Palma, in Mallorca (Spain). In the first one, two adjacent plots were synchronously sown with conventional and transgenic maize, respectively. In the second trial, the previous design was replicated, and two additional plots sown with GM maize were added, paired with their respective conventional recipient plots sown 2 and 4 weeks later. All conventional plots were located downwind from their respective GM plots. Of the two conventional plots in sowing synchrony, only one of them required a 2.25 m pollen barrier to meet the 0.9% labeling threshold. A 4-week sowing delay between GM and non-GM plots proved to be enough to keep the GM content of the recipient plots below the legal threshold. However, with a 2-week sowing delay additional coexistence measures such as pollen barriers might be needed, as suggested in the literature. Results are consistent with previous research conducted in the northeast of Spain, thus validating in the island's agroclimatic conditions a model successfully tested in that peninsular region which allows to accurately estimate the need and width of pollen barriers. The results presented here could perhaps be extrapolated to other islands, coastal areas, and regions with stable prevailing winds during the maize flowering season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Antonio Vives-Vallés
- Department of Private Law / Agro-Environmental and Water Economics Institute (INAGEA), University of the Balearic Islands, 07122, Palma, Illes Balears, Spain.
| | | | - Maria Pla
- Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Universitat de Girona, 17004, Girona, Catalunya, Spain
| | - Jeroni Galmés
- Department of Biology / Agro-Environmental and Water Economics Institute (INAGEA), University of the Balearic Islands, 07122, Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
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4
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Vărzaru AA. Unveiling Digital Transformation: A Catalyst for Enhancing Food Security and Achieving Sustainable Development Goals at the European Union Level. Foods 2024; 13:1226. [PMID: 38672898 PMCID: PMC11048781 DOI: 10.3390/foods13081226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The digital revolution is reshaping various aspects of society, including having a profound impact on food security and the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the relationship between digital transformation, quantified through the components of the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), and SDGs related to food (SDG1, SDG2, SDG3, and SDG10), along with the overall SDG Index score. The data used for investigation are sourced from reports issued by the European Commission concerning DESI, as well as the SDG reports for the period from 2017 to 2022. The paper elucidates how different components of digitalization, such as connectivity, digital skills, internet usage, and digital public services, influence the attainment of food security objectives and broader sustainable development targets using structural equation modeling and cluster analysis. The findings underscore the pivotal role of digital technologies in enhancing poverty alleviation, health and well-being, and, in particular, mitigating inequality. This study contributes to understanding the complex relationship between digital transformation and food security, offering insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders aiming to leverage technology for advancing SDGs and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Antoaneta Vărzaru
- Department of Economics, Accounting and International Business, University of Craiova, 200585 Craiova, Romania
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Bearth A, Otten CD, Cohen AS. Consumers' perceptions and acceptance of genome editing in agriculture: Insights from the United States of America and Switzerland. Food Res Int 2024; 178:113982. [PMID: 38309884 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.113982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
The terms "New Genomic Techniques" (NGTs) or "Genome Editing" refer to various methods that allow finding, cleaving, and repairing specific sequences in the genome. These techniques could contribute to managing various challenges in plant breeding and agriculture. Aside from regulatory uncertainties, the lack of consumer acceptance has frequently been cited as a significant barrier to the widespread use of NGTs in plant breeding and agriculture across the planet. This study was based on an anonymous online survey (N = 1202). It investigated what consumers from two countries that differ in gene technology regulation, namely the United States of America and Switzerland, thought about three specific applications of NGTs in plant breeding (i.e., blight-resistant potato, gluten-free wheat, cold-resistant soybean). The study highlights the importance of the affect heuristic for acceptance, as half of the participants in both countries expressed positive feelings regarding the three applications, a quarter of the participants expressed negative, and the remaining participants expressed torn or neutral emotions. Some evidence was provided that the regulatory context might have acted as a risk cue, as participants in Switzerland expressed more negative feelings, perceptions, and lower acceptance than participants from the United States of America. Lastly, our findings underscore the importance of a collaboration between the life sciences and social sciences in balancing technological innovations and public perceptions and acceptance, which have been shown in this study to be impacted by affect, values, and context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bearth
- Consumer Behavior, Institute for Environmental Decisions, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
| | | | - Alex Segrè Cohen
- Center for Science Communication Research, School of Journalism and Communication, University of Oregon, United States
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6
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Kotz J, Giese H, König LM. How to debunk misinformation? An experimental online study investigating text structures and headline formats. Br J Health Psychol 2023; 28:1097-1112. [PMID: 37263771 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Misinformation is a crucial problem, particularly online, and the success of debunking messages has so far been limited. In this study, we experimentally test how debunking text structure (truth sandwich vs. bottom-heavy) and headline format (statement vs. questions) affect the belief in misinformation across topics of the safety of COVID vaccines and GMO foods. DESIGN Experimental online study. METHODS A representative German sample of 4906 participants were randomly assigned to reading one of eight debunking messages in the experimentally varied formats and subsequently rated the acceptance of this message and the agreement to misinformation statements about the mentioned topics and an unrefuted control myth. RESULTS While the debunking messages specifically decreased the belief in the targeted myth, these beliefs and the acceptance of the debunking message were unaffected by the text structures and headline formats. Yet, they were less successful when addressing individuals with strong pre-existing, incongruent attitudes and distrust in science. CONCLUSIONS The risk of backfire effects in debunking misinformation is low. Text structure and headline format are of relatively little importance for the effectiveness of debunking messages. Instead, writers may need to pay attention to the text being comprehensive, trustworthy and persuasive to maximize effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kotz
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Helge Giese
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Heisenberg Chair for Medical Risk Literacy and Evidence-based Decisions, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura M König
- Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
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7
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Zheng Q, Liu J, Hongbin sun. Economic and carbon emission performance of green farming by marketing cooperatives. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15913. [PMID: 37215799 PMCID: PMC10199223 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Investigating the economic and carbon emission performance of green production in marketing cooperatives is important in clarifying China's green transition path and promoting green development. In this paper, we estimated the economic and carbon emission performance of green production in marketing cooperatives using survey data from 340 samples in Shandong Province, China. The results show that green farming improved the performance of marketing cooperatives, and the larger the scale, the better the performance. It is still valid after weakening the endogenous problem through endogenous transformation regression. Particularly, green farming has a more significant effect on the performance of low-performing marketing cooperatives. In addition, the carbon emission per unit area of green produces are significantly lower than that of conventional produces, and the carbon emission per unit yield of most green produces lower than that of conventional produces. Therefore, strengthening the standardized development of marketing cooperatives, promoting green technology research and development, and standardizing the market supervision of green produces are important ways to achieve the economic and carbon emission performance of green produces in China, as well as to promote China's green transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiufen Zheng
- School of Economics and Management, Nanjing Agricultural University, PR China
| | - Jiacheng Liu
- School of Public Finance and Taxation, Nanjing University of Finance & Economics, PR China
| | - Hongbin sun
- Shandong Agricultural Technology Promotion Center (Shandong Agricultural and Rural Development Research Center), PR China
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8
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Heyl K, Ekardt F, Roos P, Garske B. Achieving the nutrient reduction objective of the Farm to Fork Strategy. An assessment of CAP subsidies for precision fertilization and sustainable agricultural practices in Germany. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2023.1088640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Farm to Fork Strategy of the EU aims at sustainable food systems. One objective of the Strategy is to reduce nutrient losses by at least 50% resulting in at least 20% less fertilizer use by 2030. To this end, Member States are expected to extend digital precision fertilization and sustainable agricultural practices through the Common Agricultural Policy. In this context, this article applies a qualitative governance analysis which aims to assess the extent to which the measures proposed by the Farm to Fork Strategy, i.e., digital precision fertilization and sustainable agricultural practices, contribute to the nutrient objective of the Farm to Fork Strategy. The article analyses how these measures are implemented through the Common Agricultural Policy in Germany and Saxony. Results show that the nutrient objective of the Farm to Fork Strategy itself offers shortcomings. Germany offers some, yet overall limited, support for sustainable agricultural practices and digital precision fertilization. Hence, the Common Agricultural Policy will to a limited extend only contribute to the objective of the Strategy. The results furthermore highlight some general shortcomings of digitalization as sustainability strategy in the agricultural sector including typical governance issues (rebound and enforcement problems), and point to the advantages of quantity-based policy instruments.
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9
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de Sio S, Zamagni A, Casu G, Gremigni P. Green Trust as a Mediator in the Relationship between Green Advertising Skepticism, Environmental Knowledge, and Intention to Buy Green Food. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16757. [PMID: 36554638 PMCID: PMC9779173 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Changing individual habits towards greener choices is an essential ingredient in tackling the environmental crisis. Engaging in green behavior may improve psychological wellbeing. Although the intention to buy green products is widespread, the eco-friendly market is struggling to leave the ground. Greenwashing can increase skepticism towards green advertising, which in turn can hinder the intention to buy green products. Conversely, a better knowledge of environmental issues can promote a positive attitude towards environment and thus the intention to purchase green products. This study aimed to investigate if trust in green claims can mediate the relationships of green advertising skepticism and environmental knowledge with the intention to buy green food. An online survey was administered to 410 Italian consumers (63% female; 18-78 years). Our mediation model explained 23% of the variability in intention. Trust fully mediated the relationship between green advertising skepticism and intention to buy green food, while it partially mediated the relationship between perceived environmental knowledge and intention. Specifically, GAS was associated with lower INT through lower TR, whereas PEK was linked to higher INT though higher TR. The findings of this study can provide green market operators and policy makers with valuable information to encourage green food purchases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara de Sio
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Casu
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Paola Gremigni
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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10
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Lensch A, Duwenig E, Dederer HG, Kärenlampi SO, Custers R, Borg A, Wyss M. Recombinant DNA in fermentation products is of no regulatory relevance. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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11
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Bhagwat SA. Catalyzing transformative futures in food and farming for global sustainability. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.1009020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This perspective article highlights the need for transformation in food and farming at three scales to promote a food system that meets UN Sustainable Development Goals. Food insecurity is still a persistent problem globally because of how food and farming sector is currently organized vs. how it should be organized if cultural traditions, environmental concerns, and nutritional needs of the world's growing population were foregrounded. The article argues that system-wide transformations are needed at different scales: landscape (macro), species (meso) and genes (micro). It suggests alternatives available for food and farming sector and identifies transformative pathways that are more sustainable in cultural, social and environmental terms. A better management of farming landscapes; diversification of the food system to include a wider range of species; and better use of neglected and underutilized species, varieties and cultivars of plants, and breeds of animals, in the food system can help to catalyze such a transformation. This can go a long way in promoting global sustainability by achieving three key UN Sustainable Development Goals: 2 (Zero Hunger), 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and 15 (Life on Land).
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12
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Spök A, Sprink T, Allan AC, Yamaguchi T, Dayé C. Towards social acceptability of genome-edited plants in industrialised countries? Emerging evidence from Europe, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. Front Genome Ed 2022; 4:899331. [PMID: 36120531 PMCID: PMC9473316 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2022.899331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The agricultural biotechnology world has been divided into two blocks; countries adopting GM crops for commercial cultivation (adopters) and others without any or without relevant cultivation of such crops (non-adopters). Meanwhile, an increasing number of adopter countries have exempted certain genome-edited (GE) crops from legal GMO pre-market approval and labelling requirements. Among them are major exporters of agricultural commodities such as United States, Canada, and Australia. Due to the relaxed legislation more GE plants are expected to enter the market soon. Many countries in the non-adopter group, however, depend on import of large volumes of agricultural commodities from adopter countries. Unlike first generation GM, certain GE crops cannot be identified as unambiguously originating from genome editing using available techniques. Consequently, pressure is mounting on non-adopter jurisdictions to reconsider their policies and legislations. Against this backdrop, the paper explores recent developments relevant for social acceptability in selected non-adopters, Japan, New Zealand, the EU, Norway, and Switzerland in contrast to United States, Canada, and Australia. While Japan is already opening-up and Norway and Switzerland are discussing revisions of their policies, the EU and New Zealand are struggling with challenges resulting from high court decisions. In an attempt to take a closer look into the inner dynamics of these developments, the concept of social acceptability proposed by Wüstenhagen et al. (Energy Policy, 2007, 35(5), 2683-2691) is employed. This aids the understanding of developments in the jurisdictions considered and identifies specific or cross-cutting challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Spök
- Science, Technology and Society Unit, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
| | - Thorben Sprink
- Institute for Biosafety in Plant Biotechnology, Julius Kühn-Institut, Federal Research Center for Cultivated Plants, Quedlinburg, Germany
| | - Andrew C. Allan
- New Cultivar Innovation, Plant & Food Research, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tomiko Yamaguchi
- College of Liberal Arts, International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Christian Dayé
- Science, Technology and Society Unit, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
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13
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Fernandes PMB, Favaratto L, Fernandes AAR, Vicien C, Capalbo DMF, Zerbini FM. To become more sustainable organic agriculture needs genome editing technology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:912793. [PMID: 36061445 PMCID: PMC9437244 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.912793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luíza Favaratto
- Biotechnology Core, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | | | - Carmen Vicien
- Faculty of Agronomy, University of Buenos Aires and Institute for Scientific Cooperation in Environment and Health, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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14
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Jin Y, Schaub S, Tosun J, Wesseler J. Does China have a public debate on genetically modified organisms? A discourse network analysis of public debate on Weibo. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2022; 31:732-750. [PMID: 35086388 PMCID: PMC9344491 DOI: 10.1177/09636625211070150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We examine stakeholder participation in the online debate on genetically modified organisms in China and assess how the debate has changed over time. Therefore, we compare messages posted between 2013 and 2020 on the Chinese microblog website Weibo by using discourse network analysis. Our findings reveal strong opposition to genetically modified crops, along with the existence of two competing coalitions of supporters and opponents. We further observe an increasing number of posts supporting genetically modified organisms by the public in recent years. Consequently, there is an indication that the positions of stakeholders have changed over time. We discuss the policy implications for China and draw conclusions for other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jin
- Yan Jin, Agricultural Economics and Rural Policy Group, Wageningen University, Hollandseweg 1, Wageningen 6700 HB, The Netherlands.
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15
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Kovak E, Blaustein-Rejto D, Qaim M. Genetically modified crops support climate change mitigation. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 27:627-629. [PMID: 35148945 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Genetically modified (GM) crops can help reduce agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In addition to possible decreases in production emissions, GM yield gains also mitigate land-use change and related emissions. Wider adoption of already-existing GM crops in Europe could result in a reduction equivalent to 7.5% of the total agricultural GHG emissions of Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Kovak
- The Breakthrough Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | | | - Matin Qaim
- Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Institute for Food and Resource Economics, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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16
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Azarbad H. Conventional vs. Organic Agriculture–Which One Promotes Better Yields and Microbial Resilience in Rapidly Changing Climates? Front Microbiol 2022; 13:903500. [PMID: 35814715 PMCID: PMC9261957 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.903500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, agricultural productivity has been affected dramatically by climate-related events such as drought. On the other hand, agricultural intensification is expected to increase to satisfy the need for increased global food production. Microbes associated with soil and plants produce a range of bioactive natural products that significantly contribute to crop stress tolerance. Therefore, a better understanding of the parallel effects of agricultural management (conventional and organic croplands) and climate conditions on soil-microbe-plant interactions is crucial to maximizing the effort in engineering a plant microbiome that can better support productivity in agroecosystems. This paper provides a general overview of the major current debates on conventional and organic farming performance regarding yields, particularly under ambient and future climate conditions. With the main focus on cropland, the effect of agricultural management on soil and plant microbiomes is discussed. In addition, the advantage of incorporating microbiome-based approaches into current farming practices to ensure agricultural productivity with less adverse environmental impacts is highlighted. To enhance crop production under organic farming without massive land-use changes and expansion of farmland, the microbial-based approach can be used to ensure higher productivity, particularly under a rapidly changing climate.
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Harutyunyan N, Kushugulova A, Hovhannisyan N, Pepoyan A. One Health Probiotics as Biocontrol Agents: One Health Tomato Probiotics. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11101334. [PMID: 35631758 PMCID: PMC9145216 DOI: 10.3390/plants11101334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the most popular and valuable vegetables in the world. The most common products of its industrial processing in the food industry are juice, tomato paste, various sauces, canned or sun-dried fruits and powdered products. Tomato fruits are susceptible to bacterial diseases, and bacterial contamination can be a risk factor for the safety of processed tomato products. Developments in bioinformatics allow researchers to discuss target probiotic strains from an existing large number of probiotic strains for any link in the soil-plant-animal-human chain. Based on the literature and knowledge on the "One Health" concept, this study relates to the suggestion of a new term for probiotics: "One Health probiotics", beneficial for the unity of people, animals, and the environment. Strains of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, having an ability to ferment a broad spectrum of plant carbohydrates, probiotic effects in human, and animal health, as well as being found in dairy products, vegetables, sauerkraut, pickles, some cheeses, fermented sausages, fish products, and rhizospheric soil, might be suggested as one of the probable candidates for "One Health" probiotics (also, for "One Health-tomato" probiotics) for the utilization in agriculture, food processing, and healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalya Harutyunyan
- Food Safety and Biotechnology Department, Armenian National Agrarian University, 74 Teryan St., Yerevan 0009, Armenia;
| | - Almagul Kushugulova
- Laboratory of Human Microbiome and Longevity, Center for Life Sciences, National Laboratory Astana, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave., Nur-Sultan 010000, Kazakhstan;
| | - Narine Hovhannisyan
- Plant Origin Raw Material Processing Technology Department, Armenian National Agrarian University, 74 Teryan St., Yerevan 0009, Armenia;
| | - Astghik Pepoyan
- Food Safety and Biotechnology Department, Armenian National Agrarian University, 74 Teryan St., Yerevan 0009, Armenia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +374-91-432-493
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The Contribution of Data-Driven Technologies in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14052497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set out to improve the quality of life of people in developed, emerging, and developing countries by covering social and economic aspects, with a focus on environmental sustainability. At the same time, data-driven technologies influence our lives in all areas and have caused fundamental economical and societal changes. This study presents a comprehensive literature review on how data-driven approaches have enabled or inhibited the successful achievement of the 17 SDGs to date. Our findings show that data-driven analytics and tools contribute to achieving the 17 SDGs, e.g., by making information more reliable, supporting better-informed decision-making, implementing data-based policies, prioritizing actions, and optimizing the allocation of resources. Based on a qualitative content analysis, results were aggregated into a conceptual framework, including the following categories: (1) uses of data-driven methods (e.g., monitoring, measurement, mapping or modeling, forecasting, risk assessment, and planning purposes), (2) resulting positive effects, (3) arising challenges, and (4) recommendations for action to overcome these challenges. Despite positive effects and versatile applications, problems such as data gaps, data biases, high energy consumption of computational resources, ethical concerns, privacy, ownership, and security issues stand in the way of achieving the 17 SDGs.
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Human Health and Ecosystem Quality Benefits with Life Cycle Assessment Due to Fungicides Elimination in Agriculture. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14020846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Industrial agriculture results in environmental burdens due to the overuse of fertilizers and pesticides. Fungicides is a class of pesticides whose application contributes (among others) to human toxicity and ecotoxicity. The European Union aims to increase organic agriculture. For this reason, this work aims to analyze climate change, freshwater ecotoxicity, terrestrial ecotoxicity, human toxicity, (terrestrial) acidification, and freshwater eutrophication impacts of fungicides and calculate expected benefits to human health (per European citizen) and ecosystem quality (terrestrial) with life cycle assessment (LCA) during crop production. The Scopus database was searched for LCA studies that considered the application of fungicides to specific crops. The analysis shows how many systemic and contact fungicides were considered by LCA studies and what was the applied dosage. Furthermore, it shows that fungicides highly contribute to freshwater ecotoxicity, terrestrial ecotoxicity, human toxicity, and freshwater eutrophication for fruits and vegetables, but to a low extent compared to all considered environmental impacts in the case of cereals and rapeseed. Expected benefits to human health and ecosystem quality after fungicides elimination are greater for fruits and vegetables, ranging between 0 to 47 min per European citizen in a year and 0 to 90 species per year, respectively.
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Abstract
The need for sustainable agricultural sector is growing rapidly due to climate changes. As there are still knowledge gaps and the need for innovations that support farmers in the sustainability transition, there is a need for determining priority research areas that are vital for the sustainable development of agriculture. The aim of our study was to derive a long-term vision of the desirable agricultural sector in Poland and prioritize research areas required to make Polish agriculture sustainable. We applied the living lab approach and, by conducting a backcasting exercise with the lab members, we identified a desirable vision of agriculture in Poland and the research areas needed to realize this vision. Using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Cumulative Voting (CV), we prioritized these research areas. Our results show that adaptation to climate changes is the most important area of research, having 38.6% of the total possible number of points using AHP and 29.7% in the case of CV. The analysis of the Polish strategic documents related to agriculture and agricultural research shows that, to some extent, these key research areas are already part of the national policy, but there is not sufficient funding and coordination to tackle all aspects of sustainability in agriculture.
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Wang L, Kaur M, Zhang P, Li J, Xu M. Effect of Different Agricultural Farming Practices on Microbial Biomass and Enzyme Activities of Celery Growing Field Soil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312862. [PMID: 34886587 PMCID: PMC8657710 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Soil quality is directly affected by alterations in its microbiological, biological, biochemical, physical, and chemical aspects. The microbiological activities of soil can affect soil fertility and plant growth because it can speed up the cycling of nutrients, enzymes, and hormones that are needed by plants for proper growth and development. The use of different agricultural management practices can influence microbial biomass and enzyme activities by altering soil microclimate, soil microorganism habitat, and nutrient cycling. Based on this, the present work planned to evaluate the impact of conventional, low-input, and organic farming systems in a vegetable field growing celery on microbial biomass and different soil enzyme activities. The present study showed a comparison of the effect of different practices on biological soil quality indicators during two sampling times, i.e., one month after colonization and one month before harvesting. It was observed that the soil microbial biomass in the organic farming system was significantly higher than that found in conventional and low-input practices. Under an organic farming system, the soil microbial biomass in December was significantly higher than that in October. The soil microbial biomass carbon in the 0–20 cm soil layer showed higher variation compared to that in the 20–40 cm layer for all the three of the farming management practices that were used in the study. Additionally, the soil total carbon and total organic carbon were recorded as being higher in the December samples than they were in the October samples. Under all the three of the management practices that were applied, the soil catalase activity was higher in the October samples than it was in the December soil samples that were collected the from 20–40 cm soil layer compared to those that were taken from the 0–20 cm layer. The application of organic fertilizer (chicken and cowmanure compost) resulted inincreases in the soil urease and in the protease activity. The protease activity of the soil samples that were extracted from the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm soil layers in October was higher in the samples that were taken from farms using conventional practices than it was in the samples that were taken from farms using organic and low-input practices, while the samples that were collected during December from both of the soil layers showed higher protease activity when organic methods had been used. No significant variation in the soil urease activity was observed between the two soil layer samples. Urease activity was the highest when organic management practices were being used, followed by the low-input and the conventional modes. For the conventional and low-input practices, the soil urease activity showed an obvious trend of change that was related to thetime of sampling, i.e., activity in December was significantly higher than activity in October. The novelty of this study was to determine the microbial biomass carbon and enzymatic activity in a six-field crop rotation (tomato, cucumber, celery, fennel, cauliflower, and eggplant) using three management practices: low-input, conventional, and organic systems. The present study showed that the long-term application of organic fertilizers plays a large role in maintaining excellent microbial and enzyme activitythat result in improved soil quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Earth System Observation and Modeling, College of Geography and Environmental Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (L.W.); (M.K.); (P.Z.)
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Miami College, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Mandeep Kaur
- Henan Key Laboratory of Earth System Observation and Modeling, College of Geography and Environmental Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (L.W.); (M.K.); (P.Z.)
| | - Ping Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Earth System Observation and Modeling, College of Geography and Environmental Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (L.W.); (M.K.); (P.Z.)
| | - Ji Li
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Correspondence: (J.L.); (M.X.)
| | - Ming Xu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Earth System Observation and Modeling, College of Geography and Environmental Science, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; (L.W.); (M.K.); (P.Z.)
- Correspondence: (J.L.); (M.X.)
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22
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Smyth SJ, Wesseler J. The future of genome editing innovations in the EU. Trends Biotechnol 2021; 40:1-3. [PMID: 34481656 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The European Commission (EC) recommends that policy within the EU should consider how to make the regulation of new genomic techniques 'more resilient, future-proof and uniformly applied' than is presently the case. In this article, we explore what this might mean for the EU and what solutions might exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J Smyth
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5A8, Canada.
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Visioli F, Marangoni F, Poli A, Ghiselli A, Martini D. Nutrition and health or nutrients and health? Int J Food Sci Nutr 2021; 73:141-148. [PMID: 34148498 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2021.1937958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Diet is an important contributor to human health and public health bodies are issuing guidelines aimed at favouring healthy food choices. The aim of our paper is to discuss the aspects underlying the concept of nutrient profiles, that is, defining levels of energy, some macronutrients, or salt which should not be exceeded in individual foods, according to the available evidence, to help in understanding to what extent such approach may actually be useful for improving nutrition and quality of life of European consumers. We list several pitfalls and oversimplifications of the current approaches to nutrient profiling and of the dichotomic classification of foods into "healthy" and "unhealthy" products. In view of the current "Facilitating healthier food choices - establishing nutrient profiles" EU initiative, we believe that further debate among all stakeholders is warranted and must consider all the limitations outlined in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Visioli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,IMDEA-Food, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Daniela Martini
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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