Reconceptualizing INRM in understanding environmental risks from food production systems

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science
• Soil Science

Background:

• Sustainable agricultural development hinges on soil fertility, nutrient use efficiency, and resource use efficiency.
• Understanding farmer decision-making regarding fertilizer application is key to integrated natural resource management.
• The study focuses on the farm-soil and water nexus in India's intensive agricultural regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the drivers behind high fertilizer use among farmers.
• To identify entry points for integrated natural resource management.
• To analyze the interplay between economic factors and environmental considerations in fertilizer decisions.

Main Methods:

• Monitoring of soil quality parameters, including total nitrogen and nitrate concentrations.
• Application of factor analysis to identify key drivers of fertilizer use.
• Analysis of farmer motivations and resource-related aspects.

Main Results:

• Economic benefits, particularly fertilizer affordability, are the primary drivers of fertilizer use.
• Other significant factors include intrinsic/extrinsic motivations, resource availability, and institutional frameworks.
• A notable finding is the passivity towards environmental quality despite its importance.

Conclusions:

• Short-term economic benefits often overshadow environmental concerns for farmers.
• Outreach educational programs promoting sustainable farming practices are vital for effective resource management.
• Collaborative support from agricultural agencies is essential to develop site-specific recommendations and reduce pollution.