Principles of environmentally sustainable agriculture for building resilient and resource-efficient food systems.

Abstract

As the demand for greater quantities of higher-quality food grows with population expansion, climate change, urbanization, and unsustainable agricultural practices accelerate the loss of arable land, ultimately threatening agricultural sustainability. Population growth necessitates a transition to nutritious, safe, and healthy food production systems that ensure higher yields, less reduced waste, improved social outcomes, and the integration of economic, social, and environmental sustainability principles. Urgent global challenges such as resource depletion, biodiversity loss, and climate change necessitate the protection of ecosystems and the sustainable use of natural resources. Agricultural systems must enhance food production and supply productivity, strengthen system resilience, and improve resource efficiency and sustainability. The sustainable development of agricultural systems based on resilience and productivity is important to ensure food security. The aim of this review is to compile, describe, and propose future strategies for promising food systems-including transformative innovations and alternative farming techniques-to facilitate the transition toward resilient, resource-efficient, and sustainable agriculture, and to mitigate long-term challenges. It also provides recommendations for future research, sustainability, resilience, and emerging food trends aimed at promoting sustainable food systems and green technologies, protecting ecosystems, resources, and biodiversity, and optimizing waste management and natural resource use. This article focuses on future sustainable food production and security, environmental protection, alternative protein sources, and innovative agricultural techniques; it highlights scientific and technological advancements, emerging research directions, and offers a comprehensive perspective on resilient, resource-efficient, and sustainable food production systems.