GIS-Based Approaches for Enhancing Agronomic Biofortification and Nutritional Security
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20577675Keywords:
Spatial Mapping, Precision Agriculture, Soil Micronutrients, Nutrient ManagementAbstract
Although micronutrient malnutrition is not common in developed nations, it is a significant problem in developing countries, where diets are predominantly based on staple crops. The use of micronutrient-enriched fertilisers, known as agronomic biofortification, is a practical solution to improve the micronutrient content of crops. In practice, uniformity of fertiliser application is often partially compromised, however, by differences in soil nutrient availability. Solving this challenge with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is possible because it enables spatial mapping of soil micronutrient deficiencies, including zinc, iron, and selenium. GIS can be used to integrate soil characteristics, topography, climate and crop response, which can help in site-specific nutrient management and precision agriculture practices. This allows the fertiliser application to be targeted, thus ensuring nutrient-use efficiency and increasing the nutritional quality of the crops. In addition, GIS decision-support systems can be used to identify priority areas for biofortification. Consequently, GIS is of great importance for enhancing the efficiency of resource utilisation, supporting sustainable agriculture, and boosting global food and nutrition security.
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