Potentials of synthetic biodegradable mulch for improved livelihoods on smallholder farmers: a systematic review
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Date
2024-09-25
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Frontiers in Agronomy
Abstract
Plastic waste in agriculture, particularly from polyethylene mulch, poses
significant environmental challenges. Synthetic biodegradable mulch has
emerged as a sustainable alternative, derived from renewable resources such
as thermoplastic starch, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and
copolyesters. This review explores the benefits of synthetic biodegradable
mulch, its environmental impact, and the policy landscape to support its
adoption. A review of existing literature was conducted, focusing on three
aspects: (1) the performance of synthetic biodegradable mulch in crop
production and pest control, (2) the environmental, socioeconomic, and
climate resilience compared to polyethylene mulch, and (3) the institutional
policies that promote synthetic biodegradable mulch adoption. The analysis
considered comparative data on yield, pest management, and sustainability
metrics. Synthetic biodegradable mulch performs similarly or better than
polyethylene mulch in various agricultural practices. It enhances crop yield,
quality, and weed suppression, acts as a physical barrier against pests and
diseases, reduces chemical usage, and aids in water and nutrient management.
Moreover, synthetic biodegradable mulch offers environmental benefits by
reducing plastic waste, microplastic pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions,
contributing to climate change mitigation. While synthetic biodegradable mulch
provides numerous advantages, adoption faces challenges such as high initial
costs, farmer preferences, and the regulatory framework. Effective institutional
policies and increased consumer demand could drive wider adoption, offering
potential for improved livelihoods among small farmers while promoting
environmental sustainability.
Description
Journal article
Keywords
Conservation agricultural practices, Bio-based products, Improved livelihoods, Smallholder farming systems, Synthetic biodegradable mulch
Citation
doi: 10.3389/fagro.2024.1454060