Horizon e-Publishing Group (HePG): E-Journals
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Turning trash into treasure: Valorization of fruit waste for sustainable bioeconomy
Full text linkThe effective utilization of fruit waste offers a significant opportunity to advance sustainable resource management and reduce environmental burdens. This comprehensive overview brings together current research on the diverse applications of fruit by-products, showcasing their potential across various industries. Fruit waste, comprising peels, seeds and pulp, is highly valuable to the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries due to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as vitamins, fibre and antioxidants. In addition to industrial applications, the integration of fruit waste into agricultural practices, such as compost or biofertilizer, improves soil health and enhances crop productivity. These organic amendments reduce dependence on synthetic inputs and promote environmentally responsible farming practices. Beyond agriculture and industry, fruit waste is increasingly explored for its role in sustainable material and energy development. Notably, its high carbohydrate and cellulose content make it suitable for biofuel production, while its film-forming properties support the creation of biodegradable packaging as a replacement for plastics. Furthermore, processed fruit residues are proving to be effective animal feed components, offering nutritional benefits and lowering feed costs in livestock production. This review stresses the economic and environmental advantages of fruit waste utilization and urges the development of scalable, cost-effective processing technologies to maximize its potential. It underscores the importance of ongoing research and cross-sector collaboration among academia, industry and policymakers to unlock the full value of fruit by-products. Such efforts are essential to advancing circular economy principles and reducing the environmental impact of food production systems
Turmeric planting methods and mechanization strategies: A review towards the development of a fully automatic planter
Full text linkTurmeric (Curcuma longa), a major crop in India accounting for 80 % of global production, faces challenges such as pest infestations, diseases, climate change and economic volatility, necessitating precision agriculture strategies to enhance sustainability. Planting is a critical determinant of crop yield and quality; however, conventional manual methods remain labor-intensive and inefficient, underscoring the need for mechanization. Mechanical turmeric planters have been shown to decrease the cost and time associated with planting by 59.52% and 96.57 %, respectively. This review examines key turmeric planting methods, including flat-bed, ridge-and-furrow and raised-bed systems, while analyzing the engineering properties of turmeric rhizomes relevant to planter design. It has been found that ridge planting has produced 86.78 q ha-1 of yield compared to flat-bed planting of 67.26 q ha-1 and raised bed planting significantly reduced disease incidence, with only 9.6 % leaf spot and no rhizome rot observed, compared to 22.5 % leaf spot using the flat bed method. The evolution of planting technology from manual to semi-automatic and fully automatic systems is discussed, along with a critical assessment of metering mechanisms such as vertical rotating discs, multistage rotating cups and auger conveyors. The influence of furrow opener design and operational parameters, including planting speed and accuracy, on field performance was also reviewed. By identifying research gaps related to the impact of rhizome properties on planter efficiency, this study concludes that optimized automatic planters tailored to turmeric’s specific agronomic requirements can enhance planting precision, improve productivity and contribute to sustainable cultivation practices
Evolving phyllody resistant mutant(s) in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) through marker validation and phytochemical quantification
Full text linkSesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the most important oilseed crops in India. Among the various factors affecting the productivity of sesame, phyllody caused by phytoplasma and transmitted by Orosius albisinctus is a major disease which will reduce the yield up to 80 %. As sesame phyllody is a vector bone disease it is very difficult to control this disease and evolving resistant/tolerant variety may be one of the low-cost solutions. With the objective of evolving a high yielding phyllody resistant sesame variety through mutation, this research was executed. About 100 handpicked good quality seeds of sesame varieties viz. TMV 7, CO 1 and VRI 3 were subjected to irradiation at Atomic Power Station, Kalpakkam (IGCAR) on 18th September 2020. Three doses of gamma irradiation viz., 30 kR, 40 kR and 50 kR were fixed for our mutation studies. The M1 generation was raised at Agricultural Research Station, Vaigai Dam on 21.09.2020 by following Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. At the time of flowering, selfing was carried out to ensure self-pollination in the mutants and the selfed seeds of the M1 generation were used to raise the M2 generation. In the M2 generation 132 phyllody-free sesame plants were identified at the time of maturity and forwarded as families to M3 generation. In the M3 generation a total number of eighteen families were identified as phyllody free families and forwarded to M4 generation. Among the eighteen families of the M4 generation, one family i.e. PR 375 is recorded as the phyllody tolerant species with the score of 16.06a. While screening for phyllody resistance none of the plant protective measures were carried out. From these families, seven phyllody resistant mutants (PR 375-1, PR 375-2, PR 375-3, PR 375-4, PR 375-5, PR 375-6 and PR 375-7 were identified. The resistance for phyllody in the PR 375 family was confirmed by the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay by using the universal primer pairs P1/P7 and R16F2n / R16 R2 as marker and quantification of secondary metabolites viz. phenols, tannin, alkaloids and flavonoids. The progeny of PR 375 will be forwarded to subsequent generations for further evaluation
Sunn hemp - An under-exploited versatile crop for soil nitrogen transformation and fibre production
Full text linkSunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) is a versatile legume belonging to the family Fabaceae, commonly used as a green manure or cover crop adding benefits to the cropping system. Nowadays, the excessive use of chemical sources of nitrogen to meet the crop demands has led to poor nitrogen use efficiency and significant environmental degradation. Reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers by supplementing them with green manure can minimize these negative impacts without compromising crop requirements. The incorporation of sunn hemp helps to improve the soil structure, water holding capacity, problem soil reclamation and increases nitrogen availability to the succeeding crop. Besides being used as a green manure crop, it is also grown as a fibre crop, due to the soft, strong and slightly lignified nature of its fibre. Synthetic fibres in blends are deleterious to the planet, requiring the search for natural and sustainable alternatives. The value of ecologically friendly resources has been increasing. Sunn hemp fibre is an underutilized lignocellulose fibre with a wide range of applications and an excellent substitute for synthetic fibres as it has natural characteristics such as high mechanical strength, low density, low cost, easy availability, biodegradability, etc. It is a fast-growing legume with high biomass, increased accumulation of nitrogen, weed suppressor, nematode controller and generates bioproducts viz., biofuel and bioenergy. The role of sunn hemp in nitrogen mineralization, their fibre properties and versatility in day-to-day activity make it a promising crop for the present and future generations. This review article presents the various uses of sunn hemp through past years of research
Tiny toxins, big problems: the hidden threat of microplastic in agroecosystems
Full text linkMicroplastic pollution has become a critical environmental challenge particularly in agricultural ecosystems, where excessive plastic use contributes to its accumulation in soils. Microplastic originate from various sources including plastic mulch films, irrigation systems, fertilizers, packaging materials and factories also gradually breaking down into microscopic particles that infiltrate the soil. Their presence disrupts soil structure, alters physicochemical properties and negatively affects water retention, nutrient cycling and microbial diversity ultimately reducing soil fertility and crop productivity. Besides disturbing soil health, microplastic enter the food chain through plant uptake, posing potential health risks to humans and even animals ingestit directly. Long-term exposure to microplastic has been linked to toxic effects including the accumulation of harmful chemicals and heavy metals. To mitigate these impacts, sustainable strategies such as biodegradable plastic alternatives, regulatory frameworks and bioremediation techniques involving plants and microorganisms must be implemented. Additionally, improved waste management practices particularly the 4Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Recover) can significantly reduce microplastic contamination. Addressing microplastic pollution in agroecosystems requires a collaborative global effort involving policymakers, industries, researchers and local communities. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enforcing stricter regulations on plastic use, we can safeguard environmental health, ensure food security and protect future generations from the long-term consequences of microplastic pollution
Analysis on consumer awareness and preferences on plant-based protein alternatives
Full text linkThe consumption behaviour is influenced by rising concerns about environmental sustainability, health and animal welfare. Plant based Protein alternatives are having high nutritional value. hence the knowledge, attitudes and preferences for plant-based proteins among 130 consumers is analysed and presented in the article. The analysis indicated that the awareness of plant-based protein alternatives is high, with word-of-mouth and personal experience being the most common sources of information. Pea protein and nuts were the most prominent alternatives, whereas hemp protein and quinoa were less popular. Factor analysis identified four key determinants of consumer choices: branding and marketing, health and well-being, practicality and ethical concerns - especially regarding animal welfare. increasing accessibility, cost, ethical messaging and marketing methods will increase plant-based protein acceptance and consumption. Limited research exists on consumer perception and market readiness in Indian urban cities compared to developed countries. It is suggested to businesses and policymakers to strategically promote plant-based alternatives by distributing through the public distribution systems, organic product retailers in affordable assortments in the market to attain sustainable development goals
A comprehensive review of biomass energy from agroforestry residues
Full text linkThe rapid growth of the global population, particularly in urban areas of developing countries, has led to an increase in energy consumption and environmental challenges, necessitating the search for sustainable energy solutions. Biomass energy, derived from organic materials such as agroforestry residues, presents a promising avenue for addressing these challenges by offering a renewable and potentially carbon-neutral energy source. This paper explores the potential of agroforestry residues as a sustainable biomass energy source, examining the availability, technological conversion processes, environmental impacts and socio-economic benefits. Agroforestry, a land use system integrating trees and crops, generates significant residues that can be transformed into energy, thereby contributing to rural development, energy security and climate change mitigation. The review highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with biomass energy production, including sustainability concerns, technological and logistical hurdles and the need for supportive policy frameworks. Successful case studies underscore the feasibility and benefits of converting agroforestry residues into bioenergy, emphasizing its role in a circular economy and its contribution towards achieving renewable energy targets and sustainability goals. The paper concludes that, with appropriate management and technological innovation, biomass energy from agroforestry residues can play a pivotal role in the global transition to renewable energy, enhancing environmental sustainability and socio-economic development
Rhizosphere borne beneficial microbes for promoting plant growth in calcareous and sodic soils– An overview
Full text linkSodic and calcareous soils are characterized by high sodium and calcium carbonate content. Excess sodium in sodic soils leads to surface crusting and dispersion of clay particles. The presence of calcium carbonate in calcareous soil results in higher soil pH, poor soil structure, low phosphorus availability and low fertility, all of which significantly reduce crop productivity. Effective management of these soils is highly essential for improving soil fertility and ensuring crop productivity, particularly in India, as 6.73 M ha of land are salt affected, whereas 229 M ha are calcareous. Bio-augmenting this problem soil with salt-tolerant beneficial microorganisms has emerged as a promising strategy for addressing these issues. Salt-tolerant bacteria can withstand salt concentrations up to 30 % by accumulating ideal solutes for osmoregulation, producing extracellular proteases and stimulating Na+/ H+ antiporters. These beneficial microorganisms can improve soil structure, increase nutrient availability, promote the leaching of excess salts and solubilize calcium carbonate by producing organic acids. Salt-tolerant plant growth-promoting bacteria could alleviate stress in plants through various mechanisms and this review paper provides an overview of salt-affected soils and the importance of rhizosphere-borne microbes in alleviating salt stress. Integration of microbial strains with traditional soil amendments provides an eco-friendly and effective approach for restoring soil health and promoting sustainable agriculture in sodic and calcareous soils
Harnessing the neurotoxic potential of essential oils as biopesticides against stored product pests
No full textThe search for sustainable solutions in pest management, particularly for stored-product pests, has accelerated due to growing concerns about food safety, environmental contamination and the development of resistance to synthetic pesticides. Essential oils (EOs), extracted from aromatic plants, possess strong neurotoxic properties and offer ecological safety. These attributes contribute to their significant potential as natural biopesticides. The review highlights current insights into the neurotoxic mechanisms of EOs, particularly their interactions with acetylcholinesterase (AchE), octopaminergic receptors, ion channels and other critical components of insect nervous systems. The efficacy of various EOs against key storage pests such as Sitophilus spp., Tribolium spp. and Callosobruchus spp. is discussed, highlighting their fumigant, contact and repellent activities. Despite their potential, their actual usage is limited due to several issues, including volatility, inconsistent chemical composition and limited residual activity. To address these obstacles, advancements in standardization, molecular understanding and formulation technologies are necessary. The review also emphasizes regulatory challenges and outlines future research directions for integrating EO-based neurotoxic agents into sustainable post-harvest pest management strategies. In conclusion, EOs offer a viable and environmentally sustainable approach to protecting agricultural commodities
Impact of climate change on rice crop yield: challenges and solutions
Full text linkRice is a staple food for billions of people worldwide, yet its production is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, irregular precipitation patterns, increased salt and increasing frequency of extreme weather events significantly compromise both rice yield and grain quality. Key stressors such as heat induced spikelet sterility, drought-induced reduction in tillering and grainfilling, salt stress inhibiting plant growth and flooding during critical growth stages pose serious challenges to productivity. Moreover, altered climatic conditions promote pest and disease outbreaks, exacerbate soil degradation, accelerate nitrogen loss and lead to salinity build-up further diminishing agricultural output. Smallholder farmers face socioeconomic vulnerability due to limited resources, inadequate technological access and insufficient adaptive capacity. Enhancing resilience involves innovations like establishing climate-resilient rice cultivars using sophisticated breeding procedures to improve tolerance to heat, drought, flooding and salinity challenges. Precision agriculture technologies (remote sensing, drones) optimize inputs through datadriven decisions. Sustainable approaches including alternate wetting/drying, direct-seeded rice and the System of Rice Intensification, conserve water. Climate-smart farming incorporating conservation agriculture, integrated crop-livestock systems and agroforestry increases overall resilience. Facilitating smallholders\u27 access to climate information services, finance, insurance and capacity building is vital for boosting adaptive capacity. A coordinated, multi-pronged approach incorporating research, technical solutions, policy assistance and community engagement is necessary to create resilient rice farming systems capable of withstanding climate change impacts while maintaining food security