Advances in Legumes for Sustainable Intensification

Advancements in Legume-based Agroecosystem for Sustainable Intensification explores current research and future strategies for utilizing legume crop cultivation and production to achieve sustainability development goals (SDGs). It covers the role of legumes in food security, nitrogen enhancement, environmental sustainability, economic-environmentally optimized systems, biomass potential, production, biology, breeding improvement, cropping systems, and weed management.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 728 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: Elsevier Science & Technology

Advances in Legume-based Agroecosystems for Sustainable Intensification delves into the cutting-edge research and prospective approaches aimed at bolstering capacity growth and socioeconomic progress by harnessing the cultivation and production of legume crops in the pursuit of sustainability development goals (SDGs). The book encompasses various sections, each shedding light on the crucial role of legumes in addressing pressing concerns such as food security, enhancing nitrogen levels in the environment, promoting environmental sustainability, implementing economically viable and environmentally friendly systems, underscoring the significance and impact of nitrogen, embracing organic production practices, and exploring the potential of biomass. Furthermore, it delves into the intricacies of legume production, biology, breeding improvement, cropping systems, and the innovative use of legumes for eco-friendly weed management. This comprehensive resource serves as a valuable asset for scientists, researchers, and advanced students passionate about championing the efficient utilization of legumes for agronomic and ecological advantages.

Introduction:
Legumes, belonging to the Fabaceae family, have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their remarkable ability to enhance soil fertility, improve nitrogen fixation, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. Their symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria allows them to replenish the soil's nitrogen content, reducing the reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Moreover, legumes possess diverse ecological benefits, including soil conservation, water retention, and biodiversity promotion.
Role of Legumes in Addressing Food Security:
One of the primary roles of legumes in addressing food security is their ability to produce high-quality protein. They are an excellent source of essential amino acids, making them a valuable food source for people in developing countries, particularly those who rely on plant-based diets. Legumes also have a high protein content, which can contribute to improved nutrition and better health outcomes.
Improving Nitrogen in the Environment:
Legumes play a crucial role in improving nitrogen levels in the environment. Through their symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, they can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can utilize. This process not only enhances soil fertility but also reduces the amount of nitrogen that is lost to the atmosphere through denitrification.
Environmental Sustainability:
Legumes are environmentally sustainable crops because they help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and store it in their biomass, reducing the amount of carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere. Additionally, legumes can improve soil health and water retention, reducing the risk of soil erosion and promoting biodiversity.
Economic-Environmentally Optimized Systems:
Legume-based cropping systems can be economically and environmentally optimized. They can improve soil fertility, reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, and enhance water retention, leading to increased crop yields and reduced water usage. Moreover, legumes can be integrated into mixed cropping systems, providing additional benefits such as pest control and improved soil structure.
Importance and Impact of Nitrogen:
Nitrogen is a vital nutrient for plant growth and development. Legumes have a unique ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere, making them an important source of nitrogen for agriculture. Nitrogen is essential for the production of high-quality crops, and its availability can significantly impact crop yields and food security.
Organic Production:
Organic production is gaining popularity worldwide, and legumes play a significant role in organic farming. They can be grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, making them a suitable choice for environmentally conscious farmers. Organic production also promotes soil health and biodiversity, reducing the negative impact of agriculture on the environment.
Biomass Potential:
Legumes have a high biomass potential, which makes them valuable for energy production. They can be used as feedstock for biofuel production, providing a renewable and sustainable source of energy. Additionally, legumes can be used for other purposes, such as animal feed, compost, and biogas production.
Legume Production:
Legume production involves several factors, including soil preparation, planting, and management. Proper soil preparation is essential for the growth of legumes, as they require well-drained and fertile soil. Planting techniques vary depending on the legume species, and proper management is necessary to ensure optimal yields and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
Biology and Breeding Improvement:
Legume biology and breeding improvement are critical for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of legume crops. Researchers are working to improve the genetic traits of legumes, such as nitrogen fixation, drought tolerance, and pest resistance, to improve their performance in different environments. Breeding improvements can also help to develop new varieties of legumes that are more resistant to pests and diseases.
Cropping Systems:
Legume-based cropping systems can be integrated into various cropping systems, including crop rotation, intercropping, and strip cropping. These systems can improve soil fertility, reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, and enhance water retention, leading to increased crop yields and reduced water usage.
Use of Legumes for Eco-Friendly Weed Management:
Legumes can be used for eco-friendly weed management. Their deep root system allows them to compete with weeds for nutrients and water, reducing the need for herbicides. Additionally, legumes can release compounds that inhibit the growth of weeds, making them an effective tool in weed control.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, advances in legume-based agroecosystems for sustainable intensification offer promising solutions for addressing food security, improving nitrogen levels in the environment, promoting environmental sustainability, and implementing economically viable and environmentally friendly systems. By harnessing the potential of legumes, we can contribute to the achievement of SDGs and create a more sustainable and resilient future for agriculture.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 235 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323857970