AgriScience and Technology

How to Meet the Challenges in Agriculture as a Life Science University

Eric J. Veulliet — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

Agricultural systems across the globe are experiencing unprecedented pressure due to population growth, climate change, resource scarcity, and the demands of digital transformation. Life science universities stand at the heart of addressing these challenges through education, research, and societal engagement. This article outlines the role of the University of Applied Sciences Weihenstephan-Triesdorf (HSWT) in Germany as a model institution responding proactively to these trends. Through strategic investments, interdisciplinary research centers, and the development of innovative degree programs, HSWT exemplifies how academic institutions can become engines of sustainable change under the “twin transition” — the simultaneous pursuit of digital transformation and environmental sustainability.

Capacity Development for Green Agriculture in Armenia: An AKIS-Based Assessment and Strategic Roadmap

Lusine Aramyan, Ruben Sarukhanyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

This study contributes to the European Union›s Green Agriculture Initiative in Armenia (EU-GAIA), a development project aimed at fostering sustainable, inclusive, and market-oriented agribusiness in the northern regions of Armenia. Implemented by the Austrian Development Agency, the project supports the transition to green agriculture (GA) through capacity building, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. Employing the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) framework, this research identifies capacity needs, institutional challenges, and knowledge gaps among key stakeholders. The study combines a systematic review with 68 in-depth stakeholder interviews and a tailored questionnaire-based self-assessment to develop a capacity development roadmap. Findings reveal critical weaknesses in research collaboration, extension services, market incentives, and policy enforcement. The paper presents a detailed strategy for short- and long-term capacity building, including the establishment of Centres of Excellence, curriculum reforms, legal frameworks, and stakeholder networking mechanisms. The results offer actionable insights for policymakers, development agencies, and academic institutions committed to sustainable agricultural transformation.

Innovative Approaches to Knowledge Transfer and Experience Sharing in Armenian Agriculture

Aram Aristakesyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

As Armenia seeks to transition toward more sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices, the success of this transformation depends significantly on how knowledge is generated, shared, and applied among agricultural stakeholders. This paper explores critical gaps in the current educational system for agricultural professionals in Armenia, contrasts these with international best practices, and proposes a two-part strategy that integrates curriculum reform, experiential learning, and digital tools. A five-step model for training veterinarians and farmers is presented, along with practical innovations such as mobile applications, video tutorials, and a national online platform for agricultural education. By emphasizing participatory learning, localized content, and lifelong education, this framework seeks to empower individuals and communities, enabling Armenia’s agricultural sector to thrive in the face of future challenge.

A Comparison of Climate Smart Food Systems in Armenia, Georgia, and Moldova: Policy Implications for Armenia

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

In May 2020, the European Commission introduced the Farm to Fork (F2F) strategy (European Commission, 2020), a bold initiative aimed at overhauling Europe’s food systems with a strong focus on sustainability and long-term environmental, human, and planetary health goals - in line with the objectives of the EU Green Deal (European Commission, 2021). The profound impacts of industrial food systems on climate change, biodiversity, and public health are often overlooked. Globally,
food systems account for nearly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions (Crippa et al. 2021), are the primary causes of biodiversity loss (Boakes, et al., 2024), and play a substantial role in health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. To build on these efforts, the EU Strategic Dialogue on Agriculture recently introduced a document of recommendations called “A Shared Prospect for Farming and Food in Europe.”( European Commission, 2024). The initiative aims to reform the EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), create Just Transition and Nature Restoration Funds, and advocate for more sustainable diets – new directions for advancing the Farm to Fork agenda that will shape European policy in the future.
Food systems are critical for ensuring food security, supporting sustainable development, and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. This paper explores lessons learned from three GUMA project countries: Armenia, Georgia, and Moldova. A qualitative analysis was conducted using data gathered from diverse sources, including official statistical agencies, international donor organization frameworks, and sectorial data. In addition, for Armenia specifically, the study incorporates insights from surveys of key actors across state, academic, and private sectors. All three countries face challenges related to rising temperatures leading to heat stress and droughts, soil health and degradation, and the prevalence of smaller farm sizes. Additional issues include low levels of organic production, limited access to markets and finance, underdeveloped or no agricultural extension services, significant post-harvest food loss and waste, food insecurity, and insufficient adoption of healthy and sustainable diets. Furthermore, these challenges are worsening because of the lack of governmental or international incentives to promote climate-friendly and sustainable farming programs and gaps in governance and strategic planning. The study highlights key lessons from climate-smart food systems in Armenia, Georgia, and Moldova, offering comparative insights and actionable recommendations to guide policy development and advance sustainable agricultural practices in Armenia.

Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture through Innovative Soil Science Technologies

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

Modern agriculture demands sustainable solutions to increase productivity while preserving environmental health. This study investigates the effectiveness of water-soluble combined fertilizers (WCF) in improving the growth, yield, and quality of winter wheat (Bezostaya 100) and potato (Marfona) under low-fertility soil conditions in Armenia. The WCF contains macro- and micronutrients, amino acids, and chelating agents, tailored to meet the nutritional needs of crops from germination to maturity. The experimental design included seed soaking and foliar application at key growth stages. Results revealed that WCF significantly increased field germination rates, enhanced root and shoot biomass, and improved crop yields compared to both control and conventional fertilizer treatments. A significant enhancement in wheat grain yield was observed, reaching up to 42.9% more than the control treatment. In the case of potatoes, production increased by 44.5%, accompanied by improved levels of dry matter and starch, and a noticeable decrease in nitrate concentration. These findings demonstrate that WCF can serve as a valuable component in sustainable nutrient management, enhancing crop performance and economic efficiency. The combination of seed priming and foliar feeding ensures nutrient availability throughout critical growth stages. This study supports the broader application of WCF in environmentally responsible agriculture and encourages further research into its benefits across diverse crops and soil types.

Exploring the Mechanical Composition of the Armenian Indigenous Grape Varieties “Mormor” and “Chragi Yerkser”

Amalya Iskandaryan, Bella Grigoryan, Karen Kazumyan, Mikayel Mikayelyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

This research explores the mechanical composition of Mormor and Chragi Yerkser, rare and unexplored grape varieties indigenous to Armenia. By meticulously examining physical attributes, the research aims to uncover their unique characteristics and potential implications. Investigating these varieties not only enhances knowledge about their cultivation and potential use but also contributes to biodiversity by preserving and promoting lesser-known Armenian grape varieties. This supports the diversity within Armenia’s viticultural landscape and fosters resilience in grape production. The findings are intended to facilitate knowledge exchange among growers and researchers, while ultimately supporting the diversification, sustainability, and competitiveness of Armenia’s wine industry by integrating Mormor and Chragi Yerkser as valuable genetic resources into differentiated product lines.

Measuring the Climate Resilience of Smallholder Farmers in Lori Province

Arya Jemal — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

Armenia’s main risks from climate change are increasing temperatures and variability in precipitation. The agricultural sector will be heavily impacted by these climate risks. Climate projections estimate the agricultural sector will experience changes in the growing season, exacerbated soil degradation and erosion due to extreme and unpredictable weather, unfavorable growing conditions, increased water demand, and reduction in yields. Rural farmers, women in particular, lack access to technology, training, and financial opportunities, making them the most vulnerable demographic to the climate crisis and the least prepared to adapt. This research study aimed to 1) develop a tool by which climate resilience of smallholder Armenian farmers in Lori Province can be measured, 2) use the tool to measure climate resilience of smallholder farmers throughout Lori, and 3) use the findings to provide farmers with climate-smart recommendations to increase climate resilience via increased soil health, food security, financial stability, and livelihoods. Recent research reveals that smallholder farmers in Armenia’s Lori Province are largely unprepared to cope with the escalating impacts of the climate crisis. Despite their vulnerability, rural women farmers demonstrate a relatively higher level of climate resilience and show greater openness to adopting innovative and adaptive agricultural practices. The study determined the easiest, most cost-effective solutions to increase climate resilience among smallholder farmers were through the following: encouraging reduced tillage practices, introducing cover crops, access to training and knowledge particularly around soil health, access to financial opportunities, higher quality seeds, implementation of water management practices, and increased access to markets.

Farm Waste Management and Climate-Smart Practices in Marginal Environments: Focus on the South Caucasus Region

Nato Kldiashvili — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

The South Caucasus region, encompassing Georgia and Armenia, is home to diverse agricultural systems that are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. These challenges are particularly intensified in marginal environments - areas where soil degradation, water scarcity, and topographical constraints significantly hinder sustainable farming efforts. One critical yet often overlooked aspect of resilience-building in these regions is farm waste management, which plays a direct role in both environmental health and agricultural productivity. This study presents a desk review and analytical synthesis of existing literature, government reports, and international best practices to assess the current state of farm waste management and climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices across marginal zones. Special attention is given to the Agricultural Waste Management System (AWMS) concept, including the characterization of waste types, available treatment methods, and broader systemic benefits when implemented effectively. The analysis also identifies prevailing poor practices, highlights their environmental and socioeconomic consequences, and proposes policy recommendations tailored to regional needs. Drawing on my practical experience and engagement with stakeholders in the region, the study emphasizes the urgent need for region-specific CSA approaches, integrated waste systems, and stronger institutional frameworks to better support farmers. The article concludes with actionable guidelines for both farmers and policy-makers aiming to reduce climate vulnerabilities and promote sustainable rural development in the South Caucasus.

Establishment of Windbreaks in Semi-Arid Zones as a Method to Ensure the Sustainability of Agroecological Transformations

Marine Markosyan, Hasmik Khurshudyan, Elmira Zakaryan, Astghik Hovhannisyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

In the context of ongoing global climate change, establishing protective forest layers that enhance the stability of agroecosystems has become increasingly essential. This issue is particularly pressing in arid regions such as Armenia. Prior to the 1990s, the creation of protective forest layers was a widespread practice across the Republic of Armenia, primarily aimed at reducing wind intensity and preventing the intrusion of cold air masses into agricultural and residential areas. In addition to serving as windbreaks, these forest layers played a vital role in regulating the soil’s water regime and creating a favorable microclimate for the growth and development of both plant and animal life. Despite their proven importance, most of these protective forest layers have been removed across the country—including in semi-desert zones—due to shortages of fuel and energy resources. As a result, no new protective layers have been established since.However, agro-ecological transformation now presents an opportunity to develop sustainable agro-food systems, making the restoration of windbreaks in the Ararat Valley not only desirable but necessary. Such practices will support environmental sustainability while also delivering substantial socio-economic benefits. This study presents an analysis of agroecological indicators, based on which a model for the establishment of windbreaks in the study area has been developed.

Discovering and Studying an Endangered Apricot Variety in the Republic of Armenia

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

The aim of this research expedition was to identify, map, and sample indigenous apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) varieties in the Ararat Valley of the Republic of Armenia. The study focused on conducting morphological assessments to support further testing, breeding, and the development of innovative cultivation technologies (www.nature.com). These efforts are intended to promote the expansion of apricot orchards and enhance the production of high-quality, productive, and competitive apricot varieties native to Armenia. Samples were collected from these trees and subjected to laboratory-based morphological studies, which included standardized measurements and weight analyses based on established protocols. The study material was apricot fruit and leaf samples selected from apricot orchards in the Surenavan, Aralez and Taperakan settlements of Ararat province. To ensure accurate identification, the samples underwent biometric measurements and were weighed using precision electronic scales. Based on this process, the study aimed to achieve the following objectives: 1. To develop a detailed phenotypic characterization of apricot fruits. 2. To document the morphological features of apricot pits and kernels 3. To describe the structural characteristics of apricot leaves. The apricot varieties examined during the scientific research study were in the stage of industrial maturity, providing a solid foundation for continued study and evaluation. These distinguished varieties will be considered for inclusion in the national assortment of fruit crops in the Republic of Armenia. Ultimately, the most economically valuable species, forms, and varieties will be identified and recommended for commercial production, contributing to the diversification of apricot cultivation in the country.

Digital Tools Paving the Path towards a more Sustainable and Resilient Agricultural Production

Patrick Ole Noack — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

Agriculture faces numerous challenges ranging from climate change to a dramatic decrease in labor force. Making agriculture more sustainable and resilient summarizes all the challenges also including economic welfare and environmental aspects.
Different technologies and methods have been suggested to achieve the aim of increasing sustainability and resilience, such as the reduction of meat consumption, the replacement of meat by in-vitro meat and the application of advanced breeding methods such as CRISP/R Cas.
Another option helping to improve agricultural production with respect to economic, ecological and social aspects is the application of digital tools also known as Precision Farming or Digital Farming. These tools and the related resources have become increasingly attractive due to (1) a strong decline in prices for software, hardware and data, (2) the increasing availability of data and (3) the increasing accuracy and resolution of data and sensor systems.

Leveraging Nanotechnology and Radiometric Sensing For Sustainable Agriculture: Innovations For Green Growth

Gevick Davoodi, Laya Anjo — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

In the context of the global shift towards sustainable agriculture, innovative technologies play a pivotal role in enhancing environmental management and productivity. This paper explores the integration of nanotechnology and radiometric sensing techniques to optimize agricultural practices, reduce environmental impacts, and promote long-term sustainability. By harnessing the power of nanomaterials and advanced sensors, we can achieve more precise soil analysis, water management, and crop health monitoring, addressing key challenges in modern agriculture. Nanotechnology offers solutions for enhancing soil nutrient delivery, improving crop resistance to climate stress, and fostering efficient use of water resources. Meanwhile, radiometric sensors, including those based on gamma-ray and other radiometric techniques, provide real-time, non-invasive methods to assess soil quality, monitor contaminants, and track the effectiveness of sustainable practices. These technologies enable farmers to make data-driven decisions, improving yield while minimizing resource consumption and ecological footprints. This article will highlight practical applications of these technologies in the context of green agriculture, offering insights into their potential for advancing sustainable development goals. By focusing on interdisciplinary collaboration and embracing innovation, this approach aims to empower stakeholders and foster a greener, more resilient agricultural future. This title and abstract reflect your focus on nanotechnology and radiometric sensors while tying them directly to sustainable agricultural practices, making it relevant to the conference themes.

The Potential of Magnetized Water to Enhance Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Gevick Davoodi, Laya Anjo — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

The global demand for sustainable agricultural practices necessitates exploring innovative water management strategies. Magnetized water, a novel approach with promising applications in agriculture, offers a pathway to improving plant growth, optimizing resource utilization, and enhancing soil quality. This study investigates the effects of magnetized water on key agricultural parameters, including seed germination, plant growth, crop yield, and soil health. Laboratory and field experiments were conducted to evaluate its efficacy across various crop types and soil conditions. Results indicate that magnetized water significantly improves water absorption and nutrient uptake in plants, leading to accelerated growth rates and increased biomass. Furthermore, the treatment reduces soil salinity and enhances microbial activity, fostering a healthier growing environment. These findings suggest that magnetized water could play a pivotal role in addressing water scarcity and reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, aligning with the goals of sustainable and eco-friendly farming. This paper discusses the underlying mechanisms, such as reduced water surface tension and improved solubility of nutrients, and highlights potential challenges and opportunities for large-scale adoption. By providing a comprehensive analysis of its agricultural benefits, this study aims to pave the way for integrating magnetized water technologies into modern farming systems, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.

One Health Probiotics in Green Microbial Technologies

Anahit Manvelyan, Astghik Pepoyan, Mikayel Mikayelyan, Marine Balayan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

The “One Health” concept, traditionally centered on zoonotic pathogens and infectious disease management, has evolved to embrace the broader ecological interplay between humans, animals, and the environment. In recent decades, the accelerating challenge of antibiotic resistance has highlighted the fluid boundaries between pathogenic and commensal microorganisms, emphasizing that nature tolerates no strict divisions. Antibiotic resistance genes can readily transfer across microbial populations, blurring the lines between health‐promoting and pathogenic species. Consequently, modern “One Health” strategies must not only manage existing pathogenic threats but also foster sustainable microbial ecosystems that prevent future pathogen emergence. In this context, commensal and probiotic microorganisms play a vital role in stabilizing environmental, animal, and human microbiomes, serving as key agents in Green Microbial Technologies. This paper explores the paradigm shift from pathogen‐centered control to microbiome‐centered prevention, proposing that reinforcing beneficial microbial networks offers a sustainable, preventive approach to maintaining One Health at the agroecological interface.

Bioeconomy Concept and Its Relation to Circular Economy and Resource Management

Martin Greimel — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

Bioeconomy is referred as a main contributor to solve several of the big societal challenges (e.g. biodiversity loss, climate change, raw material shortage, etc.). But the concept of Bioeconomy does not have a general acknowledged description. This article gives a historic background, describes the present concepts and gives an overview of planed political strategies and action plans.

Why do Strategies Remain Silent: The Discourse of Food Waste Management in the Regional Development Agendas of Armenian Marzes

Sargis Gevorgyan, Van Baghdasaryan, Lilit Hakhinyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

This research examines the alignment between the socio-economic and environmental goals set in the Regional Strategic Development Plans of Armenian Marzes and their actual progress as of 2025, with a particular focus on food waste management. Using a deductive analytical approach, the study evaluates regional strategies through keyword-based content analysis and benchmarks their stated targets against available statistical data from 2015 to 2023. While notable progress was observed in increasing formal employment outside the agricultural sector, most regions failed to meet their GDP and unemployment reduction targets. Crucially, the analysis reveals a substantial policy gap: despite Armenia’s commitment to sustainability under the EU-Armenia CEPA agreement, food waste management is entirely absent from all regional strategies. The lack of legislative frameworks and institutional accountability has led to limited awareness and poor environmental practices across the country. The study concludes with a call for the integration of food waste as a strategic priority in regional planning and the urgent need for national regulation and stakeholder collaboration.

Integrating Circular Economy Principles in Armenia’s Agriculture: A Pathway to Sustainable Development

Hasmik Hovhanesian, Arman Harutyunyan, Kristine Alaverdyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

Armenia’s transition to a circular economy (CE) in agriculture represents a critical opportunity to address environmental degradation, optimize resource use, and improve food system resilience. Despite ongoing policy alignment with the European Union and initial pilot projects, Armenia’s agricultural sector still lacks a coherent CE strategy and institutional capacity for wide-scale implementation. This paper explores a strategic framework for CE adoption by analyzing international best practices including cases of Italy, Georgia, Finland, Moldova, Spain and Serbia. Using comparative case analysis and policy mapping, the study identifies key components essential for Armenia’s transition: waste valorization, closed-loop nutrient systems, regenerative farming practices, enabling policy reforms, financial instruments, and capacity building. The findings offer a roadmap for integrating CE principles into national agricultural planning, with recommended milestones leading to a 50% reduction in agricultural waste, 40% increase in organic input use, and widespread deployment of biogas and composting infrastructure by 2040.

Enhancing Food Loss and Waste Management for Improved Sustainable Agri-Food System: Empirical Study in the Republic of Armenia

Davit Markosyan, Vardan Aleksanyan, Sargis Gevorgyan — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0400

This study investigates the relationship between food security and waste management in Armenia’s agri-food system, which faces challenges such as low productivity, small landholdings, soil degradation, and inefficiencies in livestock and crop production. These issues contribute to food insecurity and dependence on imports. Emphasizing the importance of reducing food loss, the research analyzes data from 2005 to 2022 to identify correlations between food loss and variables such as food import, use, and export. The findings indicate that increased imports, use, and exports of food commodities are linked to higher food loss. Statistical and regression analyses highlight the impact of these factors on food waste and security, identifying key areas for intervention. Recommendations for reducing food loss include improving infrastructure for food imports, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and investing in better storage and preservation facilities. The study advocates for applying circular economy principles, such as redistributing surplus food and valorizing food waste. Strategies like community-supported agriculture (CSA) and clustering actors in the agri-food value chain are suggested to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices.