Reshaping agricultural production systems: Trade-offs and implications for sustainable intensification and environment management

Abstract

CONTEXT: As global food production is projected to double to meet future food demand, reshaping agricultural systems to balance productivity with environmental sustainability is a critical challenge. Cambodia, where smallholder farming dominates and rural communities face increasing socioeconomic and environmental pressures. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to provide empirical evidence on viable intensification strategies for smallholders in Northwest Cambodia which enhance food security, reduce poverty, and promote environmental sustainability, offering practical insights to address these global priorities through locally grounded solutions. METHODS: This study integrates demographic-socioeconomic data from a census of 997 upland households and farming practices from 46 maize plots to assess trade-offs and to navigate pathways for sustainable and resilient agricultural production. Show more