1 Introduction

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is a major crop used for sugar and bioenergy production worldwide. While it is economically vital, its cultivation can have significant environmental impacts. These include soil degradation, water overuse and contamination, and considerable greenhouse gas emissions, especially when pre-harvest burning is practiced. For instance, the expansion of sugarcane farming often leads to intensive land use changes, which may adversely affect soil quality, lead to biodiversity loss, and increase greenhouse gas emissions (Cardoso et al., 2018; Perillo et al., 2021).

To address these environmental concerns, it is essential to implement best management practices (BMPs) and adopt technological innovations. BMPs such as the non-burning of sugarcane fields before harvest and the adoption of green harvesting techniques help reduce air pollution and enhance soil health by retaining crop residues on the fields. Technological innovations, including precision agriculture and advanced mechanization, optimize resource use and minimize environmental footprints. For example, controlled traffic farming and reduced tillage are known to decrease soil compaction and maintain soil fertility, significantly improving the sustainability of sugarcane production (Chagas et al., 2016).

Moreover, the integration of biorefineries into the sugarcane industry can transform waste products into valuable bioenergy and bioproducts, thereby reducing waste and increasing the crop's overall sustainability. The adoption of these practices and technologies not only mitigates the environmental impacts but also enhances the economic viability of sugarcane production, making it a more sustainable agricultural practice globally (Silva et al., 2020).

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of various BMPs and technological innovations in reducing the environmental impacts associated with sugarcane cultivation. By systematically examining these aspects, this research expects to provide comprehensive insights into how BMPs and technological advancements can contribute to more sustainable sugarcane cultivation. The ultimate goal is to develop guidelines and recommendations that can be adopted by farmers and policymakers to promote environmentally friendly and economically viable sugarcane farming practices globally.

2 Environmental Challenges in Sugarcane Production

2.1 Soil degradation

Soil degradation in sugarcane cultivation areas is a critical issue arising primarily from intensive agricultural practices and heavy mechanization. These activities lead to the compaction of the soil, which diminishes its porosity and negatively impacts water infiltration and retention capacities. Furthermore, continuous cultivation without adequate soil conservation measures can lead to a significant loss of topsoil, essential nutrients, and organic matter, which are crucial for maintaining soil fertility.

The consequences of soil degradation include reduced agricultural productivity, increased vulnerability to erosion, and greater difficulty in water management. Mechanized harvesting and tillage equipment, often used in large-scale sugarcane operations, exacerbate these effects by disturbing the soil structure and creating hardpans that restrict root growth and water movement. Studies by Goldemberg et al. (2018) and Renouf et al. (2016) both emphasize the adverse effects of mechanization on soil health, highlighting the reduction in soil's biological activity and its long-term productivity.

To combat soil degradation, it is imperative to adopt soil management practices that enhance organic matter content and structure, such as the application of green manures, compost, or controlled traffic farming to minimize soil compaction. These practices help maintain soil fertility and structure, promoting better water absorption and reducing runoff, which is critical for sustainable sugarcane production.

2.2 Water use and pollution

Sugarcane is a water-intensive crop, especially in regions where irrigation is necessary to supplement natural rainfall. The challenge of water use in sugarcane cultivation is twofold: ensuring adequate water supply for crop growth while minimizing the impacts on local water bodies and ecosystems. Water pollution from agricultural runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides is another significant issue. These substances can leach into streams and rivers, leading to eutrophication, harming aquatic life and reducing water quality.

The studies by Chico et al. (2022) and Bordonal et al. (2018) provide comprehensive reviews of the impacts of water management in sugarcane production. They discuss the importance of adopting irrigation technologies that improve water use efficiency, such as drip irrigation, which precisely delivers water directly to the plant roots and significantly reduces evaporation losses. Moreover, integrated pest management and precision agriculture techniques can substantially reduce the need for chemical inputs by optimizing their application, thus diminishing the potential for environmental contamination. These technologies not only help in reducing the environmental footprint of sugarcane production but also enhance the overall sustainability of water resources.

2.3 Greenhouse gas emissions

The production of sugarcane can lead to significant greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from the burning of sugarcane fields prior to harvest, a practice still prevalent in some regions to facilitate manual harvesting. Burning not only releases a large amount of carbon dioxide but also methane and nitrous oxide, which are potent greenhouse gases. Moreover, the decomposition of organic matter left on the fields after harvesting without burning can also emit greenhouse gases if not managed properly.

However, sugarcane has the potential to be part of the solution to global warming. As highlighted by Popin et al. (2020).sugarcane bioenergy can replace fossil fuels, thereby reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions. The integration of advanced technologies such as carbon capture and storage and the use of sugarcane residues for bioenergy production could further enhance this potential (Zhao et al., 2015).

3 Best Management Practices (BMPs)

3.1 Non-burning harvest techniques

Non-burning harvest techniques, commonly known as green harvesting, are pivotal for reducing the environmental impacts of sugarcane production. Traditional burning practices, used to facilitate manual harvesting and pest control, contribute significantly to air pollution and loss of biodiversity. They also result in the destruction of organic matter crucial for soil health. Switching to non-burning techniques offers numerous benefits including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the conservation of soil integrity by retaining crop residues on the fields. These residues decompose naturally, enriching the soil with organic matter and improving its structure and nutrient content.

Perillo et al. (2021) detail the substantial decrease in greenhouse gas emissions achieved through the adoption of green harvesting in southern Brazil. Their research underscores how this practice not only mitigates air pollution but also enhances the carbon sequestration potential of the soil, which is vital in the fight against climate change.

3.2 Soil health management

Soil health management is critical to ensuring the long-term productivity and sustainability of sugarcane cultivation. Practices such as crop rotation, controlled traffic farming, and reduced tillage are fundamental in this regard. Crop rotation helps break pest cycles and reduces the build-up of pathogens, while diversifying the structure of the soil microbiome. Controlled traffic farming minimizes soil compaction, preserving its porosity and aeration, which are essential for root growth and water infiltration. Reduced tillage techniques maintain soil structure, reduce erosion, and increase water retention.

Thorburn et al. (2016) explore these techniques in the context of Brazilian sugarcane production. Their findings demonstrate that implementing these soil health management practices significantly reduces soil degradation and enhances yield stability over time, confirming their importance in sustainable agriculture practices.

3.3 Integrated pest management (IPM)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to pest control that combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools in a way that minimizes economic, health, and environmental risks. IPM emphasizes the use of biological controls and the development and deployment of resistant varieties, reducing the reliance on synthetic pesticides. This approach not only diminishes the chemical runoff into nearby water bodies and soil but also promotes biodiversity by preserving beneficial insects and microorganisms.

A study by Shukla et al. (2019) in the context of sugarcane emphasizes the successful application of IPM strategies. They discuss how IPM not only helps manage pests effectively but also reduces pesticide use, fostering a healthier ecosystem and sustainable crop production.

4 Technological Innovations in Sugarcane Production

4.1 Precision agriculture

Precision agriculture represents a revolution in the way sugarcane is cultivated, harnessing advanced technologies such as drones, sensors, and GPS to enhance agricultural efficiency and environmental sustainability. These tools allow for precise mapping of variability in field conditions, such as soil moisture levels, nutrient status, and pest pressures. This information can be used to optimize the application of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, ensuring that these resources are applied only where needed and in the correct amounts (Iqbal et al., 2021).

Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can monitor crop health from above, detecting issues such as water stress, disease outbreaks, or nutrient deficiencies before they become widespread. GPS technology enables tractors and other machinery to follow precise routes in the field, minimizing overlap and reducing soil compaction, fuel consumption, and time.

The use of these technologies minimizes the environmental footprint of sugarcane production by reducing runoff and leaching of chemicals into water bodies, lowering emissions from agricultural machinery, and enhancing the overall efficiency of resource use. The work of Bordonal et al. (2018) provides insights into how precision agriculture techniques can significantly improve the sustainability of sugarcane production by reducing inputs and maximizing outputs.

4.2 Bioenergy and bioproducts

The development of biorefineries to process sugarcane byproducts into bioenergy and other valuable bioproducts is a key innovation that enhances the sustainability of the sugarcane industry. Byproducts such as bagasse and vinasse, which are traditionally considered waste materials, can be converted into bioelectricity, bioethanol, bioplastics, and biofertilizers. This not only adds value to the sugarcane industry but also reduces environmental pollution by minimizing waste disposal issues.

Biorefineries integrate various technological processes to extract maximum value from sugarcane byproducts. For example, the conversion of bagasse into bioethanol involves enzymatic hydrolysis followed by fermentation, turning what would be waste into a valuable fuel that can replace gasoline. Similarly, vinasse can be used to produce biogas or as a nutrient-rich biofertilizer, enhancing soil fertility and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers (Talakayala et al., 2020).

The research by Kumar et al. (2018) examines the enhancement of sugarcane fertilization for energy purposes in hot climates, highlighting how technological advances in the treatment and utilization of byproducts can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits.

4.3 Genetic improvement

Genetic improvement through traditional breeding and modern genetic engineering is crucial for developing sugarcane varieties that are more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses such as drought and salinity. These improved varieties can significantly enhance the sustainability and efficiency of sugarcane production by reducing the need for chemical inputs like pesticides and irrigation water, and by improving crop resilience and yield stability under varying climatic conditions.

Breeding programs focus on identifying and incorporating genetic traits that confer resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, while genetic engineering allows for the precise insertion of genes into the sugarcane genome. This can expedite the development of improved varieties that might take decades to develop through traditional breeding methods.

The work by Li and Solomon (2015) demonstrates how genetic improvements, particularly in developing disease-resistant and stress-tolerant sugarcane varieties, can lead to more sustainable production practices by reducing crop losses and minimizing the environmental impact of cultivation.

5 Case Studies and Real-World Applications

5.1 Brazil: implementation of green harvesting and bioenergy production

Brazil, as one of the world’s leading producers of sugarcane, has been at the forefront of adopting sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate environmental impacts and enhance productivity. The researches provided highlight significant trends and shifts in Brazil’s sugarcane industry, showcasing the successful implementation of green harvesting techniques and the integration of precision agriculture. 

Green harvesting, also known as mechanized harvesting without pre-harvest burning, has been a pivotal shift in Brazil’s sugarcane industry. Bordonal et al. (2018) shows a significant shift in sugarcane harvesting methods in the central and southern regions of Brazil, gradually transitioning from traditional manual incineration harvesting to green mechanized harvesting. This change not only enhances the sustainability of agricultural production, but also has a positive impact on environmental protection and efficient resource utilization. With the widespread adoption of mechanized harvesting technology, the sugarcane industry is moving towards a more environmentally friendly and efficient direction.

Reduction in manual burned harvesting: In 2006, about 61% of the harvested area relied on manual burned techniques. This method, while traditional, contributed significantly to air pollution and soil degradation due to the burning of crop residues. By 2016, the area using manual burned harvesting had decreased to just 6%. This substantial reduction highlights the industry’s move away from environmentally harmful practices.

Increase in green mechanized harvesting: In 2006, green mechanized harvesting accounted for 39% of the total harvested area. This practice involves using machinery to harvest sugarcane without burning, retaining crop residues on the field, which helps improve soil health by adding organic matter. By 2016, green mechanized harvesting had risen to 94% of the total harvested area. This shift not only reduces air pollution but also enhances soil quality, contributing to better water retention and nutrient cycling.

In addition to green harvesting, Brazil has embraced precision agriculture to further enhance the sustainability and efficiency of sugarcane production. Precision agriculture employs advanced technologies such as drones, sensors, and GPS to optimize resource use and minimize environmental impacts. Bordonal et al. (2018) illustrates the dynamic changes in land use for various temporary crops in Brazil from 2005 to 2016, highlighting significant trends in soybean and sugarcane cultivation. These trends reflect broader economic and environmental shifts in Brazilian agriculture, emphasizing the need for sustainable management practices to balance productivity with environmental conservation.

Moreover, Brazil has capitalized on the bioenergy potential of sugarcane, with many mills converting bagasse, a sugarcane byproduct, into bioelectricity. This process not only provides a renewable energy source but also significantly cuts down the carbon footprint of the sugarcane industry. Research by Carpio et al. (2017) and Carvalho et al. (2019) quantifies the environmental benefits of these practices, noting reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and enhancements in energy balance due to the use of bioelectricity and ethanol produced from sugarcane.

5.2 India: water management and soil conservation techniques

In India, the sugarcane sector has been facing challenges related to water scarcity and soil degradation. Innovative irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation have been adopted to address these issues. This method not only reduces water usage by delivering water directly to the plant roots but also enhances nutrient application efficiency through fertigation, thereby minimizing leaching and runoff.

The research by Surendran et al. (2016) demonstrates the effects of different tillage methods on soil moisture content during the growing season of ratoon cane, comparing surface soil (0-0.15 m) and subsurface soil (0.15-0.30 m). The tillage methods include: T1 (tractor-drawn Ratoon Management Device, RMD), T2 (conventional tillage with bullock-drawn plough), and T3 (no tillage). T1 consistently maintains the highest soil moisture levels in both surface and subsurface soils, peaking at around 35 mm³/mm³ and 38 mm³/mm³ in October, respectively. T2 also retains relatively high moisture but slightly less than T1, peaking at about 34 mm³/mm³ in both soil layers. In contrast, T3 results in the lowest moisture levels, with peaks of approximately 30 mm³/mm³ in surface soil and 28 mm³/mm³ in subsurface soil. These findings indicate that modern mechanized tillage (T1) is most effective in preserving soil moisture, essential for optimal crop growth and water management, while no tillage (T3) may lead to inadequate moisture retention, necessitating supplementary water conservation measures.

6 Concluding Remarks

Best Management Practices (BMP) and technological innovation have significantly reduced the environmental impact of sugarcane production.The transition to non-burning harvest techniques, as seen in Brazil, reduces air pollution and enhances soil quality by retaining organic matte. Soil health management through crop rotation, controlled traffic farming, and reduced tillage minimizes soil erosion and degradation while improving water retention and nutrient cycling. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, promoting biodiversity and reducing chemical runoff.

Technological innovations have furthered the potential for sustainable practices. Precision agriculture, employing tools such as drones, sensors, and GPS technology, enables precise application of water and nutrients, optimizing input use and reducing waste. The development of biorefineries for processing sugarcane byproducts into energy and other valuable products adds value to the sugarcane industry while reducing waste and environmental pollution. Genetic improvements through breeding and genetic engineering enhance crop resilience against pests, diseases, and environmental stresses, securing productivity under varying climatic conditions.

Looking forward, the sugarcane industry faces the dual challenge of increasing productivity while reducing its environmental footprint. To address these challenges, future research should focus on several key areas:

Climate Adaptation Strategies: Developing sugarcane varieties through genetic advancements that are not only more efficient in terms of resource use but also resilient to climate change, such as drought and temperature extremes.

Advanced Bioenergy Solutions: Exploring more efficient ways to convert sugarcane byproducts into renewable energy, including second-generation biofuels, which could further reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions.

Water Management Technologies: Given the water-intensive nature of sugarcane cultivation, innovative irrigation technologies that use water more efficiently are essential. Research into systems that integrate real-time soil and weather data can help predict irrigation needs more accurately.

Sustainability Assessments: Comprehensive lifecycle assessments (LCAs) of sugarcane production and its byproducts are necessary to evaluate the true environmental impact of current practices and innovations. These assessments help identify hotspots of environmental impact and opportunities for improvement.

Socio-economic Impacts: Future studies should also consider the social and economic aspects of adopting new technologies and practices in the sugarcane industry. It is crucial to ensure that these innovations are economically viable and socially acceptable to encourage widespread adoption.

Acknowledgments

The EcoEvo Publisher appreciates the revision comments provided by the two anonymous peer reviewers on the manuscript.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

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