Revitalising agriculture through climate change mitigation: a systematic literature review on smart technologies and sustainable practices

Abstract

Purpose: Agriculture is increasingly vulnerable to climate variability, raising critical questions about its long-term sustainability. Compounding this challenge, the agricultural sector significantly contributes to environmental degradation. As the urgency to mitigate these impacts intensifies, it becomes clear that integrated approaches to sustainable agriculture, particularly climate-smart agriculture (CSA), are essential. This study aims to explore how CSA technologies and practices can revitalise the agricultural sector to mitigate climate change while enhancing productivity resilience effectively. Design/methodology/approach: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology was used to systematically screen, review and synthesise the literature on CSA technologies and practices that promote sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches. Findings: This study categorises various technologies and practices identified in the literature into five key areas: climate-smart farming, climate-smart irrigation, climate-smart conservation, climate-smart nutrition management and integrated CSA. Transforming agriculture to address climate change requires interconnected approaches that promote sustainability across economic, social and environmental dimensions. Originality/value: Although CSA encompasses a variety of approaches within the agricultural sector, existing studies often focus on isolated aspects. This fragmented perspective underscores the need for a more integrated examination of advanced technologies and effective practices within CSA. This study aims to bridge these gaps to maximise the benefits of CSA for sustainable agriculture and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.