Strategy and Management Practices of Soils for Agricultural Sustainability

Soil is a critical natural resource with vast potential to support global food security and agricultural sustainability. However, conventional and unsustainable agricultural practices including excessive tillage, mono-cropping, and extensive use of agrochemicals have led to soil degradation. This study deals with reviewing and evaluating various strategies and other management practices that can be implemented to improve soil health and ensure long-term sustainability in the agriculture sector. The chapter discusses the management strategies under five main heads: water management and moisture retention through rainwater harvesting, controlled irrigation, and mulching; integrated nutrient management through no-till farming, composting, vermicomposting, and crop rotation; reduction in carbon footprint via incorporating renewable energy resources where possible, with energy-efficient machinery; integrated pest management relying on natural enemies and natural microbial enzyme derivatives; and agricultural waste management. Utilizing modern machines, on-site fast decomposers, off-site composting, marketing crop residues, and embracing a circular economy can complete the sustainability cycle. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the need for an integrated and multidisciplinary strategy that blends traditional knowledge with cutting-edge scientific advancements to promote sustainable soil management strategies tailored to local situations and farmer requirements.