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Book (stand-alone)General interest bookAssessment of agricultural plastics and their sustainability: A call for action 2021
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This report presents the results of a study on agricultural plastic products used globally in a range of different value chains. The study assessed the types and quantities of plastic products, their benefits and trade-offs. Sustainable alternative products or practices were identified for products assessed as having high potential to cause harm to human and ecosystem health or having poor end-of-life management. The report is based on data derived from peer-reviewed scientific papers, governmental and non-governmental organization’s research reports, as well as from industry experts, including relevant trade bodies. The report’s recommendations were verified during extensive consultation and review with FAO and external experts. The authors hope that the study will provide an impetus for discussion about the use of agricultural plastics, their benefits and trade-offs, and ultimately stimulate action to reduce their potential for harm to human health and the environment. -
BookletCorporate general interestGACSA. REVIEW Index-based insurance for Climate-Smart Agriculture 2017
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Brochure, flyer, fact-sheetBrochureTowards a banana sector free of plastic contamination
Sustainable management of plastics in the banana industry
2024Also available in:
According to FAO’s 2021 report "Assessment of Agricultural Plastics and Their Sustainability: A Call for Action", the use of plastics in agriculture has seen a dramatic increase since the 1950s and is expected to continue rising in the foreseeable future. Bananas, as the most consumed and traded fruit globally, heavily depend on plastic use at virtually every stage of the value chain. Plastics are employed for various purposes, including ensuring fruit quality, protecting bananas from physical damage, extending their shelf life, and serving marketing and logistical functions.This factsheet examines the key types of plastic products utilized in the banana industry throughout different stages of the supply chain, from farm operations to retail shelves. It also addresses the pressing challenges related to the management of these plastics, such as disposal, environmental impact and the risks of pollution.Additionally, this factsheet highlights industry efforts to implement sustainable practices. In line with the 7R approach (Refuse, Redesign, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover and Remediate), stakeholders are exploring innovative strategies to improve the environmental footprint of banana production. These efforts include promoting bioeconomy, reducing plastic waste and advancing plastic alternatives, which collectively support sustainability and environmental stewardship within the sector.
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Book (series)Working paperState of research on the impacts of plastic pollution on soil health and crops 2025
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No results found.This report provides a systematic review of scientific literature examining the impacts of plastic pollution on soil ecosystems, focusing on questions related to the occurrence, persistence, and effects of plastic residues in agricultural soils. Key findings indicate that plastic pollution alters soil physical, chemical, and microbiological properties, with observed impacts even at low concentrations. These changes affect soil structure, water retention, nutrient cycles, and microbial communities, thereby posing risks to plant health, crop yields, and ultimately, food quality. Furthermore, the report explores the uptake of plastic particles and associated chemicals by plants and livestock, raising concerns about potential implications for food safety. The review highlights critical knowledge gaps in understanding the long-term impacts of pollution derived from agricultural plastics, the environmental behavior of micro- and nanoplastics, and the safety of biodegradable alternatives. -
Book (stand-alone)High-profileThe future of food and agriculture – Alternative pathways to 2050 2018
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No results found.The report 'The future of food and agriculture – Alternative pathways to 2050' explores three different scenarios for the future of food and agriculture, based on alternative trends for key drivers, such as income growth and distribution, population growth, technical progress in agriculture, and climate change. Building on the report 'The future of food and agriculture – Trends and challenges', this publication provides scenario-based quantitative projections to 2050 for food and agriculture. Quantitative evidence and qualitative assessments, shed light on possible strategic options for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of eradicating hunger, improving nutrition and ensuring that food and agricultural sectors become economically, socially and environmentally sustainable. -
Book (stand-alone)High-profileA Provisional Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Sustainable Use and Management of Plastics in Agriculture 2025In response to the recommendations of the 28th Session of the Committee on Agriculture (COAG 28), subsequently endorsed by the 171st Session of the FAO Council and the 43rd Session of the FAO Conference, FAO has carried out inclusive and geographically representative consultations with FAO Members and a wide range of stakeholders towards the development of the Voluntary Code of Conduct on the Sustainable Use and Management of Plastics in Agriculture (VCoC).The VCoC provides the guiding principles, actions and measures that governments, manufacturers of plastics used in agriculture, and other stakeholders in the agrifood systems may adopt to promote sustainable management practices for plastics used in agriculture.