Current remote sensing applications for sustainable agricultural transitions and nature-based solutions

The utility of remotely sensed data is becoming increasingly relevant for agroecological studies and practical agricultural applications, promoting a more sustainable development. Advancements in satellite technology continue to progress, offering higher spatial resolutions, a greater variety of sensors, and improved temporal frequencies. These developments enhance the accessibility and applicability of remote sensing data, enabling more precise monitoring of agricultural systems and providing new perspectives for implementing more efficient, environmentally friendly practices. This review aims to present a selection of current remote sensing applications in agriculture, with a focus on their potential to facilitate a transition towards more sustainable management practices. A systematic approach was used to identify, select, and synthesize relevant studies that demonstrate different applications of remote sensing methods in agriculture. The selected studies were examined within three key areas of sustainable agricultural management: i) nutrient management, ii) the environmental impacts of production, and iii) food security. The findings highlight that while remote sensing technologies offer valuable insights into agricultural sustainability, challenges remain in terms of data integration, accuracy, and scalability. Overcoming these challenges will require interdisciplinary collaboration, advancements in data processing techniques, and the integration of remote sensing with other agricultural management tools, ultimately enabling implementation of data-driven decision-making that promotes long-term sustainability in agriculture.