Agronomy, sustainability and good agricultural practices

Abstract

Sustainable palm oil production needs to be based on the application of a code of good practices, respecting a certain number of criteria related to economic, environmental and social aspects. We focus here on economic and environmental aspects, attempting to take stock of the current situation regarding the management of inputs (fertilizers, pesticides), and of oil mill waste (empty fruit bunches, effluent). We also take a look at the main agricultural research required if we are to be able to assess the situation on different scales and see how it is evolving, and also provide assistance for rational management that is compatible with farmers’ production targets.

Keywords

• oil palm
• sustainability
• mineral nutrition
• agricultural waste
• soil fertility