Agriculture, Livestock Production and Aquaculture: Advances for Smallholder Farming Systems Volume 1

This two-volume set discusses recent approaches and technological innovations for sustainable agriculture in smallholder farming systems impacted by climate change. The chapters detail innovations involving crop diversification, soil resilience management, geoinformatics and land suitability monitoring for smart farming, information technology in livestock production, and nutrient resource management in fishery aquaculture. Researchers, practitioners, and industries can use this information to implement socially and economically sustainable practices to achieve food security in impoverished areas vulnerable to climate change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 346 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This two-volume set delves into recent approaches and technological innovations for sustainable agriculture in smallholder farming systems, grappling with the impacts of climate change. The systems under examination encompass crop-based agricultural production, as well as aquaculture and livestock production, employing similar techniques to address food security challenges arising from climate change and resource overuse. The chapters provide detailed insights into innovations involving crop diversification, soil resilience management, geoinformatics and land suitability monitoring for smart farming, information technology in livestock production, and nutrient resource management in fishery aquaculture. Researchers, practitioners, and industries will find this information invaluable in implementing socially and economically sustainable practices to achieve food security in impoverished areas vulnerable to climate change. Additionally, the set offers a comprehensive exploration of the rapid evolution in information technology that is applicable for and accessible to smallholder farmers, fostering their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of evolving challenges.

Volume 1: Current Innovations in Agricultural and Livestock Practices
In response to the formidable challenges posed by climate change, Volume 1 of this two-volume set takes a comprehensive look at the latest innovations in agricultural and livestock practices. It explores the technological hurdles, approaches, and mitigation strategies encountered by scholars and practitioners working in livestock and agricultural production systems that are grappling with the impacts of climate change.

The chapters in Volume 1 shed light on a range of innovative practices and technologies that are being deployed to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience. These include crop diversification, which involves cultivating a diverse range of crops to reduce vulnerability to climate-related shocks and improve soil health. Soil resilience management is another key area of focus, as climate change exacerbates soil degradation and erosion, necessitating strategies to enhance soil's ability to retain water, nutrients, and organic matter.

Geoinformatics and land suitability monitoring play pivotal roles in smart farming, enabling farmers to make informed decisions about crop selection, planting densities, and irrigation schedules. By leveraging advanced mapping and remote sensing technologies, farmers can optimize resource utilization and minimize environmental impact.

Information technology is also revolutionizing livestock production, with the development of precision farming technologies that enable farmers to monitor animal health, feed intake, and reproductive performance in real-time. This data-driven approach allows farmers to optimize livestock management practices and improve animal welfare, while also reducing production costs and increasing profitability.

Nutrient resource management in fishery aquaculture is another critical area of focus, as climate change impacts fish populations and disrupts traditional fishing practices. Innovative approaches such as integrated aquaculture systems, which combine fish farming with other agricultural activities, are being explored to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Overall, Volume 1 provides a comprehensive overview of the latest innovations in agricultural and livestock practices, highlighting the importance of sustainable and resilient farming systems in the face of climate change. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and industries seeking to implement socially and economically sustainable practices to achieve food security in impoverished areas vulnerable to climate change.

Volume 2: Rapid Evolution in Information Technology for Smallholder Farmers
In the rapidly evolving landscape of information technology, smallholder farmers stand at the forefront of embracing new technologies to enhance their productivity and adapt to the changing agricultural environment. Volume 2 of this two-volume set delves into the latest developments and innovations in information technology that are specifically tailored for smallholder farmers.

The chapters in Volume 2 explore a wide range of technologies, including mobile applications, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence, that are empowering smallholder farmers to improve their livelihoods and access markets. Mobile applications provide farmers with access to weather information, market prices, and agricultural advice, empowering them to make informed decisions and increase their productivity. Cloud computing enables farmers to store and analyze large amounts of data, allowing them to track crop growth, monitor soil health, and optimize irrigation schedules.

Artificial intelligence is also playing a significant role in agriculture, with the development of algorithms that can analyze crop data and predict future yields. This technology enables farmers to make informed decisions about planting, fertilization, and pest management, reducing the risk of crop failure and maximizing productivity.

In addition to these technological advancements, Volume 2 also highlights the importance of digital literacy and training programs for smallholder farmers. Many farmers lack access to basic computing skills and the internet, which hinders their ability to benefit from information technology. Training programs and digital literacy initiatives can help bridge this gap, ensuring that smallholder farmers can fully leverage the benefits of information technology and contribute to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector.

Furthermore, Volume 2 explores the role of government policies and initiatives in promoting information technology for smallholder farmers. Governments can provide subsidies, grants, and training programs to support the adoption of information technology by smallholder farmers, ensuring that they have the resources and support they need to thrive in the digital age.

In conclusion, Volume 2 of this two-volume set provides a comprehensive exploration of the rapid evolution in information technology for smallholder farmers. It highlights the importance of technology in empowering smallholder farmers to improve their livelihoods, access markets, and contribute to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector. By providing a wealth of information and insights, this set serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and industries seeking to support smallholder farmers and promote sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change.

Weight: 557g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030932602
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022