Ecological Intensification of Natural Resources for Sustainable Agriculture

Ecological intensification is a sustainable approach to agriculture that uses natural resources to achieve high productivity with minimal damage to agroecosystems. It requires an understanding of ecosystems services, components, and resource flow, as well as awareness of land use patterns, socio-economic factors, and farmer needs. The book discusses the status of ecological stress in agroecosystems and addresses ecological intensification for natural resources management, with examples from around the world. It is of interest to teachers, researchers, policymakers, and students in agriculture, forestry, ecology, agronomy, soil science, and environmental sciences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 655 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

Ecological intensification is a strategic approach to agriculture that harnesses natural resources, including land, water, soil nutrients, and other biotic and abiotic factors, in a sustainable manner to enhance agricultural yield and efficiency while minimizing harm to agroecosystems. As global food demand continues to rise, agricultural systems face significant pressures. Ecological intensification aims to address these challenges by restoring soil health and enhancing landscape ecosystem services, thereby promoting high agricultural productivity.

The approach involves replacing anthropogenic inputs with eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives. Effective ecological intensification requires a deep understanding of ecosystems services, the components of agroecosystems, and the flow of resources within these systems. It also necessitates awareness of land use patterns, socio-economic factors, and the needs of the farmer community. Recognizing the intricate interactions between ecosystem constituents within the vast agricultural landscape is crucial.

In their edited book, the editors critically examine the status of ecological stress in agroecosystems and address the issue of ecological intensification for natural resources management. Drawing upon research and examples from around the world, the book provides an up-to-date account and insights into approaches that can be implemented for poly-cropping systems and landscape-scale management to increase the stability of agricultural production systems and achieve ecological resilience. It further explores the role of farmer communities and the importance of raising their awareness about ecological issues.

This book is of interest to teachers, researchers, climate change scientists, capacity builders, policymakers, and anyone seeking to enhance agricultural sustainability and promote ecological resilience. It serves as an additional reading material for students and professionals in the field.

Weight: 1009g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789813342057
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021