Navigating the environmental, economic and social impacts of sustainable agriculture and food systems: a review

Abstract

The escalating recognition of sustainable agriculture and food systems is a response to the multifaceted challenges of food insecurity, climate change, environmental deterioration and economic pressures. In this review, sustainable agriculture is characterized as an array of farming practices that effectively address immediate demands, while simultaneously safeguarding the potential of future generations to fulfill their needs. The primary objectives include sustained productivity, pollution reduction, and economic viability and sustainability. Sustainable food systems incorporate dimensions beyond production, including processing, distribution, consumption patterns, and waste management along the entire food supply chain. An abundance of research underscores the manifold benefits offered by sustainable agriculture and food systems to society at large. These advantages include fostering climate resilience, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing water quality, promoting biodiversity, enriching soil fertility, fortifying rural livelihoods and nurturing community well-being. Nevertheless, the path toward sustainability is strewn with significant challenges. These include substantial costs involved in transitioning, conflicts in policy objectives, and the pervasive influence of traditional methods. Achieving sustainability requires the execution of holistic strategies that traverse various sectors and scales. Accelerating this progress can be facilitated through the adoption of diverse strategies, including agroforestry, agroecology, urban agriculture, farmer knowledge exchange, ecosystem service payments and supply chain shortening. However, the success of these strategies hinges on the provision of appropriate policies and incentives. Further research is vital to ascertain the ideal conditions for implementing specific interventions and to assess the comprehensive expenses and benefits linked to them. This review emphasizes the assertion that widespread adoption of sustainable practices in agriculture and interconnected food systems has positive impacts in terms of community nutrition, conservation of natural resources and long-term economic progress.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Food security / agrisilviculture / agroecology / agroforestry / halal / crop production

Highlight

	● Addresses global challenges like food insecurity, climate change and social inequality.
	● Provides environmental preservation, economic viability and social equity.
	● Strategies include agroforestry, ecosystem conservation, sustainable intensification and direct marketing.
	● Emphasizes government support and policy, community-based approaches and participatory decision-making.
	● Explores challenges and opportunities in transitioning to sustainable practices and rural-urban interactions.

1 Introduction

Establishing sustainable agriculture and food systems is instrumental in forging a prosperous society. Agriculture is the science, art, or practice of cultivating soil, producing crops and raising livestock for diverse purposes, including food, fiber, biofuel and medicinal plants. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines agriculture as the cultivation of animals, plants and fungi for a wide spectrum of products, while the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defines it as the cultivation of animals, plants, and fungi for food, fiber, shelter, fuel, and recreation^[1]. The term sustainable agriculture implies agricultural practices that ensure long-term environmental, social and economic sustainability^[2,^3]. Given global challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, social inequality and biodiversity loss, recognizing the importance of sustainable agriculture and food systems in addressing these issues becomes indispensable. This review explores the importance of sustainable agriculture and food systems, with an emphasis on their potential to propel the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Aligning sustainable agriculture and food systems with the SDGs enables a deeper understanding of their transformative capacity and favorable societal impacts^[4,^5].

Sustainable agriculture strives to safeguard the environment while endorsing the long-term prosperity of farmers and communities. It extends beyond cultivation to include the processing, distribution, marketing, consumption, and disposal of food within society. The food system impacts agricultural methods through infrastructure, policies, consumer demands, and waste patterns. Techniques like cover cropping, integrated pest management, and conservation tillage positively influence soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. Similarly, embracing local and seasonal diets while also minimizing food waste serves to endorse and support sustainable agriculture practices^[4,⁶,^7].

Enhanced transparency and fair labor practices improve farm viability and worker well-being. Investments in sustainable agriculture and food systems present intertwined solutions that support rural livelihoods, ensure food security, protect environmental protection, and enhance public health. The complex connections between agriculture, the food system, and societal requirements underline the need for holistic transitions toward sustainability.

A sustainable society refers to a socioeconomic and ecological framework designed to meet present needs without compromising upon the future generations’ ability to meet their own needs^[8]. Resolving the global issues of climate change, social injustice, and environmental degradation requires envisioning a healthful society^[9]. This involves reconfiguring current economic and social systems to foster a future that is fair, prosperous, and environmentally friendly. By prioritizing sustainability, individuals can fortify and build strong communities, safeguard natural resources, and enhance living conditions globally.

Sustainable agriculture and food systems are designed to meet current needs without compromising the future capacity of future generations to do the same. These systems prioritize environmental stewardship, economic health and societal well-being. These systems also ensure food availability, healthfulness and culturally suitable for everyone^[10]. Establishing sustainable agriculture and food systems is vital for building a sustainable society and addressing global concerns such as climate change, food insecurity, and social inequality. Their implementation can foster resilient communities, preserve natural resources and improve human and environmental well-being.

The objectives of this review are to define sustainable agriculture and food systems, elucidate their interrelationship, and elaborate on their societal values and significance. With growing global populations and escalating environmental pressures, the shift toward sustainable food production and consumption models is imperative. This review underscores how practices like integrated pest management, food waste reduction, and equitable labor standards within agricultural and food systems can benefit the environment, food security, livelihoods and human health. The importance lies in shedding light on the systemic changes required in policies, institutions, infrastructure and mindset to feed the world equitably, while conserving natural resources for future generations. Additional research will further unravel the multifaceted challenges and solutions inherent in sustainable agricultural systems. Nonetheless, the value of sustainable agriculture and food systems is evident in their integrated approach toward the environmental, economic and social aspects of food production.

2 Benefits of sustainable agriculture

Sustainable agriculture has numerous advantages, spanning environmental, economic and social dimensions. This approach prioritizes the use of natural resources in a manner that does not lead to their exhaustion, while simultaneously producing nutritious food and enhancing the economic prosperity of farmers and rural communities. The concept of sustainable agriculture encapsulates three primary objectives: environmental health, economic viability and social equity (Fig.1)^[3]. The realization of these objectives has been facilitated by a diverse range of philosophical stances, policy measures and practical strategies. Nevertheless, most definitions of sustainable agriculture identify several common themes and principles.

2.1 Environmental benefits

The implementation of sustainable agriculture practices yields significant environmental benefits, notably in preserving soil, water and other natural resources. The objective is realized through methods such as conservation tillage^[11,^12], crop rotation^[13–^15] and the utilization of cover crops^[16,^17]. Sustainable agriculture reduces water and air pollution^[18,^19] while conserving natural habitats by reducing the use of mineral fertilizers and synthetic pesticides^[20]. Additionally, it fosters biodiversity. According to Altieri and Nicholls, sustainable agriculture practices promote environmental sustainability through implementing conservation tillage, cover crops and other sustainable farming practices, which mitigate soil erosion and maintain soil quality^[21]. Reganold and Wachter^[22] emphasize the reduction of mineral fertilizers and synthetic pesticides due to their contamination potentials in the soil, water and air. Also, fostering carbon sequestration and curtailing the use of fossil fuel have been recognized as effective strategies for diminishing greenhouse gas emissions^[23]. As highlighted by the FAO^[24], conserving biodiversity can be accomplished through endorsing habitat protection and restraining habitat destruction.

Sustainable agriculture employs a multitude of practices, such as conservation tillage, cover cropping and agroforestry^[25,^26]. These practices are instrumental in mitigating soil erosion^[27] and preserving soil quality^[21]. The application of conservation tillage practices decreases soil disturbance, preserves soil coverage, and reduces wind and water erosion^[27,^28]. Cover crops safeguard the soil against erosion, increase organic matter content, facilitate nutrient cycling and foster soil structure, thus enhancing soil fertility and preventing soil degradation over time^[27]. By minimizing the use of mineral fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, sustainable agriculture reduces harmful environmental impacts. These chemicals substances can contaminate soil, water and air, triggering detrimental effects on ecological systems and human health^[22].

Within the context of climate change, sustainable agriculture endorses the transition toward alternative techniques such as organic farming^[29,^30], integrated pest management and biological control methods^[31]. These methods aim to decrease dependency on agrochemical inputs, emphasizing ecological balance and natural pest control processes^[31]. Sustainable agriculture is pivotal in climate change mitigation, both through limiting greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing carbon sequestration. According to Lal, implementing techniques such as agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and organic farming can effectively increase the carbon sequestration process in soils and biomass, presenting a feasible strategy to offset emissions^[32]. Also, sustainable agricultural practices aim to reduce reliance on nonrenewable energy sources, advocating for energy-efficient technologies, reducing mechanization dependency and integrating renewable energy sources. Such a strategy significantly curtails the carbon footprint associated with agricultural activities^[33]. The preservation of biodiversity and natural resources is a fundamental aspect of sustainable agriculture as it facilitates habitat protection and reduces detrimental impacts of habitat destruction^[34]. Evidence suggests that sustainable agriculture contributes to preserving and enhancing biodiversity on farmland through the adoption of agroecological practices, the establishment of wildlife corridors and the conservation of natural areas^[35-^37]. Various farming systems, such as crop diversification, agroforestry and heritage crop genotype conservation, create suitable and conducive environments. These systems, along with sustainable forest farming techniques like alley cropping, which benefits insects, birds and other fauna, thereby promoting ecological balance^[38,^39].

2.2 Economic benefits

Sustainable agriculture practices can result in economic advantages for farmers and rural communities^[38]. This approach to agriculture can eventually enhance profitability over time by minimizing dependence on expensive inputs such as mineral fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, and sustainable farming helps to reduce production costs^[39]. Adopting agroforestry practices has been instrumental in realizing significant economic benefits for farmers and rural communities. Through the integration of trees and the use of organic materials such as litter and manure, agroforestry significantly reduces the necessity for expensive mineral fertilizers. Also, this reduction in input costs has a direct and positive impact on production expenditures, ultimately enhancing the long-term profitability of farming operations^[40]. In addition, agroforestry has facilitated access to new markets for sustainably produced foods, contributing to economic growth and expansion. It also reinforces small-scale and family farming, which is essential for strengthening local economies and ensuring their resilience and sustainability^[41,^42].

The economic advantages of sustainable agriculture are anchored by the strategic application of natural and organic methods. These methods not only enhance soil fertility and control pests and diseases, but also support financially efficient agricultural practices. This reduces the need for expensive inputs like mineral fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, effectively delivering economic benefits to those engaged in agriculture^[22]. The deployment of agricultural techniques such as crop rotation, integrated pest management and the use of organic fertilizers can further reduce farmer dependence on agrochemical inputs, which can ultimately increase profitability^[41,⁴³,^44].

The economic benefits of sustainable agriculture predominantly focus on the enhancement of soil vitality, the optimization of nutrient cycles and the augmentation of ecosystem services. These efforts are designed to ensure a consistent increase in productivity and crop yields over a prolonged period. As suggested by Altieri and Nicholls^[21], adopting of these strategies significantly contributes to improved soil health and fertility, leading to higher crop yields and overall agricultural productivity^[21]. Leveraging sustainable practices such as agroforestry^[45,^46], conservation tillage, precision agriculture^[47] and other conservation-focused agricultural methods like organic farming, enables farmers to improve crop yields. This is accomplished without an excessive dependency on agrochemical inputs, which can ultimately facilitate an enhance in overall economic profitability^[48].

A sustainable agricultural system and the use of litter and manure to reduce the need for mineral fertilizers is a major advantage of agroforestry, which has numerous other advantages. The main economic benefits of agroforestry such as its impact on reducing input costs, improved soil fertility, improved water management, increased crop yield and quality, diversified income sources, pest and disease management, and biodiversity conservation^[6,²⁵,^49]. This makes it an attractive and environmentally-friendly approach to farming for many regions and communities.

A noteworthy advantage of sustainable agriculture is the potential creation of new markets for sustainably produced food items. The rise in consumer awareness and preference for ecologically responsible food production provides an opportunity for farmers to venture into specialized markets and secure higher returns for their goods. According to the FAO^[35], implementing sustainable agricultural methods, such as organic farming, regenerative agriculture and fair-trade certifications, can provide access to these expanding markets for farmers. By adopting sustainable production techniques and securing relevant certifications, agricultural producers can distinguish their products, attract environmentally conscious consumers and secure elevated market values.

Promoting small-scale and family farming systems can also serve to strengthen local economies, as these are typically prioritized by sustainable agriculture. As pointed out by Pretty et al.^[50], sustainable agriculture contributes in preserving vibrant rural communities and preventing the monopolization of agricultural production by large corporations through the promotion of diversified and resilient farming systems. Sustainable practices offer advantages to small-scale and family farmers, including facilitating access to local markets, establishing direct relationships with consumers and allowing for the retention of a larger proportion of the value generated along the supply chain.

2.3 Social benefits

The adoption of sustainable agriculture practices can result in several social advantages, including improving food security, strengthening rural livelihoods and encouraging cultural diversity^[51]. There is potential within sustainable agriculture to combat malnutrition and hunger by providing access to wholesome and nutritious foods. It also can promote employment and income generation in rural regions while simultaneously safeguarding traditional agricultural methods and indigenous food networks.

One key aspect of sustainable agriculture is its role in enhancing food security through the provision of diverse, healthy and nutritious food options. This approach emphasizes diversifying crop cultivation by including a range of essential produce such as fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes, which are essential for a balanced and healthy diet^[52,^53]. Sustainable agriculture endeavors to strengthen food supply resilience and increase access to a diverse range of nutritious foods for local communities. Integrating functional food crop integration with agroforestry techniques is crucial for nurturing agricultural diversity and reducing dependence on monocultures. This comprehensive approach enhances food security, mitigates risks of hunger, and addresses health issues associated with unhealthy eating habits. It furthers the overarching goals of strengthening food system resilience and promoting sustainable agriculture^[3,⁵⁴,^55].

Sustainable agriculture also aims to improve the economic conditions of rural communities by expanding livelihood opportunities. By enhancing productivity measures and broadening market access, sustainable agriculture can alleviate poverty in these areas. According to the FAO^[35], implementing sustainable agricultural techniques, such as agroecology and organic farming, can potentially improve smallholder productivity and financial returns. By reducing costs and improving product quality, agricultural producers can access premium markets, earn fair compensation for their produce, and establish sustainable income sources. Consequently, this strategy aids in reducing poverty, improving living standards and strengthening rural economies.

Advocating for preserving local food systems and traditional farming practices to promote cultural diversity is another facet of sustainable agriculture^[51]. This approach recognizes the importance of safeguarding traditional farming techniques and indigenous knowledge. According to Altieri and Nicholls^[21], sustainable agriculture contributes to the preservation of cultural diversity in agriculture by advocating for diversified farming systems and agroecological methods. This effort encourages the growth of traditional and ancestral plant species, preserves regional ecological diversity and upholds gastronomic staples of culinary traditions^[56]. Preserving cultural heritage is a protective measure and makes a significant contribution to the promotion of dietary diversity and local food traditions.

Sustainable agriculture fosters community involvement and empowerment through active participatory decision-making mechanisms. As highlighted by Pretty et al.^[50], participatory approaches, such as farmer field schools and agroecology networks, facilitate knowledge sharing among farmers, promoting the exchange of experiences, and enabling collaborative problem-solving. By involving farmers in the development and implementation of agricultural practices, sustainable agriculture fosters ownership, social cohesion and capacity building at the local level^[53].

The application of sustainable agriculture practices can foster a range of social benefits, including the strengthening of food security, improvement of rural livelihoods, preservation of cultural diversity, and facilitation of community engagement. Prioritizing social sustainability within the scope of sustainable agriculture promotes healthier, more resilient communities, empowers farmers and fortifies local food systems.

3 Challenges to sustainable agriculture and food system

Sustainable agriculture is crucial for addressing global food security concerns, promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing societal well-being. Nonetheless, this practice confronts several barriers that hinders its broad acceptance and execution. These obstacles arise from many factors, which include industrial agricultural practices, climate change and issues related to food loss and waste. Overcoming these hurdles is vital to ensuring the long-term viability and success of sustainable agricultural systems.

3.1 Industrial agriculture practices

The dominance of industrial agriculture represents a significant obstacle to the adoption of sustainable agriculture. Industrial agriculture relies heavily on agrochemical inputs, large-scale monocultures and intensive utilization of water and energy resources^[57]. Such practices have the potential to detrimentally impact soil health, deplete water resources, generate greenhouse gas emissions and trigger a decrease in biodiversity. Transitioning from industrial agriculture toward sustainable agriculture practices requires overcoming barriers such as policy support, access to resources and shifting consumer preferences^[22].

Environmental degradation is a significant consequence of industrial agriculture and poses a primary challenge. A study conducted by Gomiero et al.^[58] investigated the environmental implications of diverse agricultural management techniques, including conventional and organic farming, revealed that industrial agricultural practices contribute to soil degradation, water resource contamination, and reduction of biodiversity. Foley et al.^[59], argue that sustainable intensification is crucial for minimizing the environmental impacts of industrial agriculture, such as land transformation, emission of greenhouse gases, and water pollution.

Soil degradation is common in industrial agriculture, reducing soil fertility and productivity. The research by Lal^[60] emphasizes the adverse effects of intensive tillage, agrochemical inputs and monoculture practices on soil quality. As Reganold and Wachter^[22] suggest organic agriculture presents a viable and sustainable option that fosters soil conservation, organic matter accumulation and improved soil biodiversity.

Water pollution is a significant issue associated with industrial agriculture. The study conducted by Carpenter et al.^[61] investigated nonpoint pollution in surface waters caused by phosphorus and nitrogen. Their research demonstrates a correlation between water pollution, increased use of chemical fertilizers and insufficient waste management practices in industrial agriculture^[61]. The importance of sustainable intensification in reducing water pollution and guaranteeing water quality is emphasized^[62].

Industrial agriculture practices often lead to a reduction in biodiversity, impacting ecosystems balance and services they provide. Research highlights the significance of employing multifunctional shade-tree management within tropical agroforestry landscapes as a vital approach to nurturing and conserving biodiversity^[63]. Kremen and Miles^[64] conducted a comparative analysis of the advantages, spillover effects and trade-offs associated with biologically diverse farming systems compared to traditional industrial agriculture. Their finding underscores the critical role of biodiversity conservation in the framework of sustainable agricultural practices^[64].

Greenhouse gas emissions, a significant outcome of industrial agriculture, contribute greatly to exacerbating climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change^[65] highlight the role of agriculture in mitigating climate change, emphasizing the need to decrease emissions derived from agricultural practices. West et al.^[52] have identified specific leverage points to enhance global food security and environmental sustainability. Their research emphasized the significance of transitioning toward sustainable agricultural systems that contribute less to greenhouse gas emissions^[52].

3.2 Climate change

The climate change phenomenon presents a substantial challenge to achieving sustainable agriculture. Agricultural productivity and stability are influenced by various factors such as rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, increasing frequency of extreme weather events and altering pest and disease dynamics^[66]. Addressing the impact of climate change requires the integration of adaptive and mitigative strategies into sustainable agricultural practices, such as conservation agriculture, agroforestry^[6,²⁵,^49], crop diversification^[30,⁶⁷,^68] and water management improvement^[69]. The successful execution of these strategies requires a comprehensive understanding, adequate resources and supportive policies.

The impacts of climate change on agriculture are extensive, influencing diverse aspects of agricultural systems, such as crop productivity, water availability and food security. The subsequent references provide insights into the challenges that climate change presents with regard to sustainable agriculture. The effect of climate change on crop productivity and food security forms a significant concern. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can negatively impact crop growth, development and yield. Lobell et al.^[66] have highlighted the adverse impacts of climate patterns on global crop yield, thereby presenting potential obstacles to maintaining food security. Similarly, Rosenzweig et al.^[70] underscores the importance of evaluating and managing agricultural risks and hazards associated with climate change to secure future food production.

The issues of sustainable agriculture are compounded by changing rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and increasing water scarcity, which affect water availability and irrigation. Wheeler and von Braun^[69] examined the potential impacts of climate change on global food security, focusing on the risks and hazards related to diminishing water resources for irrigation purposes. Their research highlights the significance of improved water management practices and efficient irrigation systems in mitigating the consequences of climate change.

Climate change also influences pests and disease dynamics, resulting in further obstacles to maintaining sustainable agriculture^[71]. The rise in temperature and changes in precipitation patterns can create environments suitable for the spread of pests and disease transmission, potentially leading to increased crop damage and reduced yield. To effectively address the challenges brought on by pests and the impacts of climate change impacts, it is fundamental to incorporate species diversification in agroforestry practices. Purposeful diversification of plant species within agroforestry systems allows farmers to foster agricultural landscapes that are more resilient and adaptable. This tactical methodology includes the integration of a diverse array of trees, shrubs, crops and occasionally livestock species, enriching biodiversity and bringing about numerous benefits. Diverse agroforestry systems have the capability to diminish vulnerability to pest invasions, enhance natural pest control mechanisms and improve overall ecosystem vitality. Also, growing climate-resilient crop cultivars within these diversified systems contribute to sustainable agriculture by mitigating risks and promoting long-term food security^[72].

Adaptation strategies are vital for achieving sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change-induced challenges, underscoring the significance of resilience in agricultural systems. These strategies include the development and implementation of climate-resilient crop cultivars, the enhancement of water management practices, and the promotion of agroforestry systems. The effective implementation of these adaptive strategies can strengthen the resilience of agricultural systems, empowering farmers to manage and adapt to changing climatic conditions effectively^[73].

3.3 Food loss and waste

Food loss and waste refers to the reduction or discard of consumable food throughout the entire food distribution process, which includes production, processing, distribution and consumption stages. Food loss is the unintentional loss of food due to spoilage, damage or inadequacies in the distribution network and food waste is the intentional disposal of edible food^[9].

The issue of food loss and waste significantly impedes the pursuit of sustainable agriculture across the supply chain. There are significant food loss or waste stems from insufficient storage, transportation, and inefficient distribution systems, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization^[35]. Food waste is a major contributor to inefficiencies in resource utilization, environmental degradation, and economic losses. Therefore, the integration of sustainable agriculture practices with initiatives to mitigate food waste, enhance postharvest management and optimize supply chains is crucial for ensuring the fair distribution of food resources^[74,^75].

Food loss and waste permeate the entire supply chain, from production and postharvest handling^[75], processing^[76,^77], distribution^[78] and consumption^[78,^79]. The magnitude of food loss and waste is significant, with a substantial amount of food being lost or discarded globally^[76]. The ensuing discourse delves into the obstacles presented by food loss and waste within sustainable agriculture.

The issue of food loss and waste has substantial implications for environmental sustainability. Food production, processing and distribution require substantial resources, including land, water, energy and inputs. The squandering of food results in the waste of these resources, intensifying the process of environmental degradation. In addition, the decomposition of discarded food in landfills emits greenhouse gases, exacerbating climate change^[77,^79]. The minimization of food loss and waste is a crucial aspect of promoting environmental sustainability and minimizing the ecological footprint of agriculture^[80,^81].

The economic viability of various stakeholders, such as farmers, food producers and consumers, is affected by food loss and waste. The loss or waste of food signifies a depletion of investments, labor, and income for the farmers and enterprises engaged in the food supply chain. Minimizing food loss and waste can enhance economic sustainability, increase profitability, and generate prospects for value-added products, conferring advantages to the agricultural industry.

Numerous strategies can be implemented across the food supply chain to minimization food loss and waste. These strategies include improved postharvest handling methodologies, resource allocation toward better storage and transportation infrastructure, increased collaboration among stakeholders, implementation of consumer education and awareness initiatives, and the advocacy of innovative technologies for food preservation and processing. The effective minimization of food loss and waste requires the collaborative efforts of governments, businesses and consumers^[82].

4 Sustainable food systems

Sustainable food systems are holistic approaches to food production, distribution and consumption that promote environmental stewardship, social equity^[83] and economic viability. They include sustainable agriculture practices, efficient food processing and distribution, waste reduction and equitable access to nutritious food^[84]. Sustainable food systems aim to reduce environmental impacts, improve food security, strengthen regional economies, and safeguard the welfare of current and future generations. The SDGs implemented in 2015 call for significant changes in agriculture and food systems to eradicate hunger, achieve food security and improve nutritional outcomes by 2030^[3]. The establishment and maintenance of sustainable food systems are of utmost importance in developing and preserving a sustainable society. They facilitate environmental conservation, promote social equity and fair access to food, and foster economic sustainability. This section examines the diverse roles of sustainable food systems in accomplishing sustainability objectives.

Environmental sustainability is closely linked to sustainable food systems, which prioritize the responsible management of natural resources. This is achieved by adopting practices that minimize resource depletion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect biodiversity and preserve ecosystems. Garnett^[56] suggested that sustainable food systems include regenerative agriculture, organic farming, and sustainable fishing practices, which mitigate the environmental impacts of food production. Implementation of sustainable land use practices, water conservation measures and reduction of chemical inputs are significant contributors to the long-term preservation and well-being of the natural environment^[85,^86].

Social equity and food justice are integral to sustainable food systems, prioritizing the provision of safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food to all individuals^[86]. Mishra et al.^[87] discuss concerns pertaining to equitable access to food by endorsing regional food systems, advancing equitable trade policies and championing the concept of food sovereignty. De Schutter^88] highlighted that sustainable food systems prioritize the requirements and welfare of underprivileged communities, promoting equity in food access and reducing disparities in nutritional outcomes in the annual report submitted to the Human Rights Council Sixteenth session by the United Nation^[88]. Sustainable food systems enhance social well-being and mitigate disparities in food distribution by promoting community engagement, empowering small-scale farmers and endorsing local food initiatives.

Economic resilience can be fostered through sustainable food systems, which have the potential to strengthen local economies, generate employment prospects and enhance the viability and sustainability of small-scale farmers and food producers. According to the report of the High-Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition^[89], sustainable food systems decrease reliance on external inputs and markets, thereby increasing the resilience of local communities. Promoting local sourcing, shortening supply chains and encouraging diverse agricultural practices are effective measures for fostering strong local economies, improving food security and reducing vulnerability to global economic shocks.

There are several examples of sustainable food systems practices, including various initiatives and models. These examples illustrate the application of sustainable farming practices, sourcing of locally produced food, minimizing waste and involving the communities. Tab.1 presents an overview of the diverse methodologies employed in establishing sustainable food systems.

The preceding examples demonstrate the diversity of sustainable food systems and the multitude of methodologies employed to achieve sustainability objectives. By adopting such measures, both communities and organizations can significantly contribute to the evolution of a food system that exhibits enhanced sustainability and resilience. Also, these practices can help to mitigate the environmental impact of agriculture, enhance economic viability for farmers, and foster food security and societal well-being. A strategic combination of these approaches can pave the way to a food system that harmoniously integrates environmental responsibility, economic feasibility and societal needs.

5 Promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems

The promotion of sustainable agriculture and food systems is critical in achieving global sustainability objectives, ensuring food security, and conserving the environment. Promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems involves a range of strategies, the roles of governmental policies and regulations, and community-based approaches that facilitate the progression of sustainable agriculture and food systems.

5.1 Strategies for promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems

Numerous strategies have been devised and implemented to attain sustainability in agriculture. These strategies prioritize optimizing resource use, advocating for ecological principles and providing support for local food systems. Through the implementation of these measures, it is possible to establish resilient and ecologically sustainable agricultural systems. This facilitates the provision of nutritious foods while mitigating adverse effects on the environment. Tab.2 presents examples of strategies for promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems.

5.2 The role of government support, policy and regulation

The implementation of effective governmental policies and regulations is key to nurturing and advancing sustainable agriculture and food systems^[108]. Governments can establish a conducive framework that encourages sustainable practices, foster equitable resource distribution, and protects environmental and social interests through the formulation and enforcement of appropriate policies. Implementing effective policies and regulations can bring significant and comprehensive changes across the food system, including all production and consumption stages^[116]. This policy-based approach is crucial for achieving sustainable development objectives^[117]. Such interventions should not only target the reduction of harmful practices but also incentivize positive shifts in both agricultural production and consumption behavior. Tab.3 presents the role of government support, policy and regulation.

Through effective policies and regulations, governments can drive transformative change in the agricultural sector, foster sustainable practices and create an enabling environment for developing resilient and inclusive food systems.

5.3 Community-based approaches

Building sustainable agriculture and food systems demands a holistic approach, which includees an array of tactics, governmental regulations and community-driven endeavors. Adopting agroecological practices, sustainable intensification, direct marketing and local food systems can contribute to developing more resilient and environmentally sustainable agricultural systems. Governments are pivotal for implementing subsidy reform, setting regulations and investing in research and development. In contrast, community-based methodologies facilitate knowledge transfer, promote social equity and empower individuals to engage in sustainable agriculture^[133]. By adopting these strategies and engaging stakeholders at all levels, a food system that is both sustainable and equitable can be fostered.

Participatory decision-making is a crucial aspect of community-based approaches to sustainable agriculture and food systems. This involves the engagement of local communities in the decision-making process, ensuring their opinions are considered, and their knowledge and experiences are acknowledged. Stringer et al.^[53] proposed the use of participatory approaches that can engender the establishment of ownership, promote social equity and facilitate the progression of sustainable agriculture and food systems customized to a particular context. Participatory approaches provide mechanisms for dialog, collaboration and collective problem-solving by engaging local communities in decision-making processes. Governmental and community efforts can cultivate more equitable and sustainable agricultural systems by addressing power imbalances, promoting social justice and fostering the evolution of sustainable agriculture and food systems, which are designed for unique contexts and the needs of the community. This approach applies a grassroots perspective, appropriately considering the distinct ecological, cultural and socioeconomic elements of communities. The involvement of stakeholders in the decision-making process is an essential element of community-based strategies aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems. These participatory approaches effectively promote ownership, foster social equity and facilitate the development of context-specific and sustainable solutions by actively engaging local communities in the decision-making process. This methodology acknowledges that communities possess significant knowledge and comprehension of their immediate surroundings, which can be crucial for formulating efficient and situation-specific remedies. Participatory approaches offer dialog, collaboration and collective problem-solving mechanisms by engaging local communities in decision-making^[53].

Incorporating diverse viewpoints ensures that the needs, aspirations and concerns of all parties involved are considered, resulting in more equitable and comprehensive outcomes. The process of involving community members in decision-making processes regarding agricultural policies, land use planning and food system development instills a sense of ownership and empowerment. It also contributes to advancing social equity by facilitating the involvement of underrepresented groups, such as small-scale farmers, women, indigenous communities and youth. Participatory approaches potentially foster more equitable and sustainable agricultural systems by mitigating power imbalances and promoting social justice. These approaches also enable the development of sustainable agriculture and food systems designed for particular circumstances and requirements of a community. By embracing diverse perspectives and knowledge, participatory decision-making empowers communities to actively shape their agricultural systems and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.

Community-based initiatives, such as the creation of communal gardens, promote the development of resilient and environmentally conscious food systems by engaging farmers in sustainable practices. According to Okvat and Zautra^[26], communal gardens serve the dual purposes of fostering social cohesion and providing opportunities for individuals to access locally grown produce while also gaining knowledge on environmentally sustainable horticultural practices. These gardens offer urban dwellers, who may have limited access to cultivable land, the chance to grow their own foods and experience the satisfaction of self-sufficiency. They serve as catalysts for social interaction and cohesion, facilitating the integration of heterogeneous community constituents and fostering a feeling of inclusivity and collective direction. Community gardens provide an opportunity to obtain locally cultivated produce that is fresher and more nourishing than commercial produce. Additionally, they provide education on environmentally sustainable horticultural practices, which enable individuals to incorporate environmentally sustainable practices in their gardening activities. Community gardens are pivotal in promoting sustainable food systems, as they promote communal cohesion, provide entry to regionally cultivated crops and convey expertise on environmentally conscious horticultural methodologies. By engaging individuals in sustainable practices, community gardens promote the establishment of robust and environmentally aware food systems^[26].

Participatory decision-making is essential in community-based approaches to sustainable agriculture and food systems. It involves local communities in the decision-making process, which ensures their opinions are considered and their knowledge and experiences are given due recognition. Stringer et al.^[53] posit that participatory approaches can create the establishment of ownership, promote social equity and facilitate the progression of sustainable agriculture and food systems customized to the context. Participatory approaches offer dialog, collaboration and collective problem-solving mechanisms by engaging local communities in decision-making processes. The act of involving community members in decision-making processes promotes a feeling of ownership and empowerment and can contribute to the advancement of social equity through the facilitation of the involvement of historically marginalized groups. Participatory decision-making is a process that enables groups to express their apprehensions and ambitions, granting them the agency to engage in decision-making procedures that have a direct bearing on their sustenance. It has the potential to foster more equitable and sustainable agricultural systems by mitigating power imbalances and promoting social justice. It is characterized by a bottom-up perspective that considers the distinctive ecological, cultural and socioeconomic factors of communities. Participatory approaches effectively promote ownership, foster social equity and facilitate the development of context-specific and sustainable solutions by actively engaging local communities in the decision-making process. By incorporating a range of viewpoints and expertise, participatory decision-making enables communities to take an active role in shaping their agricultural systems and promoting a more sustainable and just future^[56].

Using community-based strategies in sustainable agriculture and food systems have many advantages, such as improving social unity, increasing availability of nutritious food, safeguarding cultural legacy and amplifying local capacity to withstand environmental and socioeconomic adversities. Through the involvement of communities in the decision-making process and the promotion of sustainable practices, these strategies facilitate the development of food systems that are more sustainable, equitable and resilient.

Fig.2 illustrates the Food System Mapping^[134–^136]. which can also be conveyed through verbal descriptions methodologies, commonly utilized in climate modeling and land use analysis^[135,^136]. Researchers have employed various methodologies to simulate the functioning of systems aiming to enhance the precision in describing systems accurately. These methodologies also strengthen the predictive capacity regarding changes and outcomes resulting from various interventions. Nourish Food System Mapping examines the material flows within the food system, covering aspects like transportation, waste, food and financial exchanges. Significantly, the representation of people in the artwork highlights the impactful role of individual and societal decisions in shaping various dynamics, as opposed to being governed only by impersonal principles or natural laws^[137]. The portrayal explicitly includes the political system as a pivotal component, aligning it with health, biological, economic and social systems, emphasizing its significance within the agriculture and agroforestry food system^[136–^138]. Focusing solely on economic flows in the analysis of the food system overlooks the integration of other crucial driving elements that significantly influence its functionality and sustainability.

6 Conclusions

Sustainable agriculture and food systems are crucial for constructing a sustainable society. They contribute to environmental preservation, economic prosperity and social well-being. By adopting sustainable practices, it should be possible to mitigate environmental degradation, conserve natural resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by adopting sustainable practices. Sustainable agriculture also promotes economic benefits by reducing input costs, increasing productivity and creating new markets for sustainably produced foods. Also, it enhances food security, improves rural livelihoods and supports cultural diversity and community empowerment. To advance the sustainable agriculture and food systems, a united effort must be made by governmental bodies, policymakers, agriculturalists, consumers and local communities. Governments can enact supportive policies and regulations that incentivize sustainable practices, provide funding for research and development and support local food systems. Farmers can integrate agroforestry, conservation measures, precision agriculture and organic farming techniques. By also embracing agroecological approaches and minimizing agrochemical inputs, they can holistically advance sustainable agriculture and food systems. Consumers can support local and sustainably produced food by choosing products with certifications and labels, participating in community-supported agriculture programs and reducing food waste.

In conclusion, the significance of sustainable agriculture and food systems is key to achieving a sustainable society. Recognizing the interrelatedness among food production, ecological sustainability and societal welfare is imperative. By embracing sustainable agriculture practices and promoting resilient and inclusive food systems, it should be possible to ensure a healthy and prosperous future for the current and future generations.

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