Advancing sustainability in agriculture: A review of integrated farming systems for improved farm resilience and ecosystem health

Abstract

This review article examines Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) as a comprehensive approach to advancing sustainability in agriculture. IFS, which integrates crops, livestock, fishery, and allied activities within a single farm, is proposed as a strategy to enhance farm resilience, livelihoods, food security, and ecosystem health. The review of existing literature highlights that IFS can significantly boost farm profitability by 265% and employment by 143% compared to single-enterprise farms. IFS contribute to sustainability by enhancing nutrient recycling, reducing reliance on external inputs, and improving soil quality indicators. The integration of diverse agricultural activities promotes efficient use of resources, minimizes waste, and supports soil health through organic matter and nutrient cycling. Additionally, IFS foster biodiversity conservation, increase soil organic carbon, and help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. However, challenges such as the need for specialized skills, resources, and capital among small and marginal farmers hinder widespread adoption. The study underscores the necessity of integrating productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability within a unified evaluation framework to enhance the adaptability and effectiveness of IFS. Overall, IFS emerges as a robust and climate-resilient model for sustainable agriculture, highlighting the need for continued research, policy support, and innovative strategies for its broader implementation.