Abstract The genus Pleurotus presents a multivariate species diversity due to its ability to grow in different substrates and environments. Whether wild or cultivated, they are edible mushrooms, as they present a high nutritional value and are medicinal due to their bioactive compounds with positive health effects. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of the genus Pleurotus, since it is a cosmopolitan mushroom, and its properties can be used in different industrial applications and be a functional alternative for our future. Due to their saprophytic nature, they produce enzymes that act on the substrate in which they grow, degrading lignocellulosic material such as wood, forest and agricultural residues, hardwoods, wood by-products, cereal straw, bagasse, etc., and thanks to this degradative capacity, their enzymes are used in a wide range of biotechnological and environmental applications. In order to increase their production and consumption not only for their nutritional qualities, but also for their nutraceutical and biotechnological qualities, ease of cultivation, low investment cost, etc., new ways are being sought to increase their performance in cultivation. Recently, research has expanded the search for alternative uses of the Pleurotus genus, which has led to an increase in its cultivation, as well as its application in different fields of biotechnology. The cultivation of Pleurotus mushrooms represents an opportunity to generate a sustainable process and incorporate the process into a circular economy, generating environmental, social and economic benefits. The use of agro-industrial substrates and the subsequent reuse of the spent substrate as compost or organic fertilizer reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and minimizes methane production. This allows for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly production model. Therefore, it is necessary to develop strategies for the promotion, marketing and sustainable production of products derived from these fungi.

RESUMO: Pereskia aculeata, popularmente conhecida como ora-pro-nóbis, é uma Planta Alimentícia Não Convencional (PANC) nativa do Brasil. Considerando a baixa quantidade de trabalhos com a propagação da espécie e a importância de práticas mais sustentáveis voltadas para o pequeno agricultor, objetivou-se avaliar o crescimento de mudas de P. aculeata cultivadas em substratos com diferentes proporções de composto orgânico. As mudas foram obtidas por estaquia, e cultivadas em quatro substratos distintos, configurando três tratamentos e um tratamento controle. Os substratos foram preparados a partir da mistura de terra de formigueiro e substrato comercial, de forma que os tratamentos foram determinados pela quantidade de composto orgânico adicionado. No tratamento controle não foi incorporado composto orgânico, e nos demais tratamentos, o composto representava 25, 50 e 75% da massa total do substrato. Modelos lineares mistos foram aplicados a variáveis morfológicas e fisiológicas. Foi possível observar que, quanto maior a quantidade de composto orgânico no substrato, maior foi o crescimento das brotações que se desenvolveram nas estacas, efeito refletido, principalmente, pelo aumento do comprimento e do número de folhas do maior ramo, e da massa (fresca e seca) da parte aérea. A taxa de fotossíntese líquida e a eficiência quântica do fotossistema II também aumentaram significativamente com a incorporação de composto orgânico no substrato. É possível concluir que o incremento do composto orgânico promoveu o crescimento das mudas de P. aculeata, bem como seu desempenho fotossintético.

ABSTRACT: Pereskia aculeata, commonly known as ora-pro-nóbis, is a Non-Conventional Food Plant (NCFP) native to Brazil. Considering the limited number of studies on species propagation and the importance of more sustainable practices for small-scale farmers, the objective was to evaluate the growth of P. aculeata saplings cultivated in substrates with different proportions of organic compost. The saplings were obtained by cuttings and cultivated in four distinct substrates, comprising three treatments and one control group. The substrates were prepared from a mixture of ant mound soil and commercial substrate, with the treatments determined by the amount of organic compost added. In the control group, no organic compost was incorporated, while in the other treatments, the compost represented 25, 50, and 75% of the total substrate mass. Mixed linear models were applied to morphological and physiological variables. It was possible to observe that, the higher the amount of organic compost in the substrate, the greater the growth of the shoots that developed from the cuttings, a result reflected primarily in the increased length and number of leaves on the largest branch, and the dry mass of the above-ground part. The rate of net photosynthesis and effective quantum efficiency of Photosystem II also significantly increased with the incorporation of organic compost into the substrate. It can be concluded that the addition of organic compost promoted the growth of P. aculeata cutting saplings, as well as their photosynthetic performance.

ABSTRACT Organic fertilization with tobacco powder compost produced via solid-state fermentation (SSF) is a recent practice that needs to be evaluated through research. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of two nitrogen sources – tobacco powder compost or mineral fertilizer (NPK) – and of compost doses on N use and loss in an immediate and residual way in a wheat/corn crop succession in a subtropical Argissolo. The wheat/corn crop succession was established after three successive fertilizer applications with different doses of the compost and of NPK. The following treatments were evaluated: control without application of the compost or mineral fertilizer (C0); mineral fertilization (NPK); and three doses of tobacco powder compost calculated to supply half (C50), the same amount (C100), and double (C200) the N applied via mineral NPK fertilization. To evaluate the residual effect of the fertilizer applications, the C50, C100, C200, and NPK treatments gave rise to additional treatments that did not receive more fertilization: rC50, rC100, rC200, and rNPK, respectively. The C0 generated an additional treatment that came to receive compost, identified as C0-C100. Yield and N accumulation in the aerial part of wheat and corn and N2O emission were evaluated throughout the two crop periods. Compost, in comparison to NPK, maintained the grain yield of wheat (3.0 vs2.5 Mg ha-1) and of corn (10.2 vs 9.5 Mg ha-1) and increased N accumulation in the wheat plants (96 vs 68 kg ha-1) and corn plants (191 vs 164 kg ha-1). Compost increased cumulative N2O emissions by up to three times compared to NPK (6.84 vs 1.93 kg N-N2O ha1 yr1). Increasing the compost dose increased cumulative N2O emissions by 52 % (9.36 vs 6.16 ha-1 yr-1); however, it did not change the emission factor (EF) of N2O, the yield-scaled emission, or N use efficiency. The compost residual effect increased wheat yield up to 93 % and corn yield up to 102 %, whereas no residual effect was observed from NPK. Compost applied on the previous crops did not affect N2O emissions in wheat or in corn; consequently, a residual effect did not impact the EF of N2O. Therefore, tobacco powder compost has the potential to replace mineral fertilization in wheat and in corn. Considering its residual effect is an important strategy to optimize its use and mitigate N2O emissions to the atmosphere.

Resumen Introducción. Suelos de baja fertilidad y altos costos de logística para la producción de plántulas caracterizan a la Amazonía peruana. Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto de la combinación de suelo arenoso y compost de palma aceitera sobre el sustrato, el crecimiento y la nutrición de plántulas de cacao en condiciones de invernadero. Materiales y métodos. El experimento se realizó durante 90 días en Yurimaguas, Loreto, bajo un diseño completamente al azar en una matriz de 5 × 5, con cinco dosis de compost de palma aceitera y suelo arenoso, a fin de obtener la mejor combinación para el crecimiento y la nutrición del cacao. Se midió la altura (cm), el diámetro (mm), el área foliar (cm2), el peso seco del vástago y la raíz; también se realizó análisis químico del suelo y análisis de plantas (macro y micronutrientes). Resultados. Los resultados mostraron que el suelo arenoso no tuvo un efecto significativo en las plántulas de cacao, mientras que los tratamientos con compost de palma aceitera promovieron la biomasa de brotes y raíces. Además, esta composta favoreció las condiciones para el crecimiento de las plántulas al promover mayor materia orgánica, fósforo disponible, calcio intercambiable, potasio y mayor capacidad de intercambio catiónico. En el caso de la nutrición del cacao, promovió una mayor absorción de macro y micronutrientes en las plántulas. Conclusiones. Estos resultados indicaron que el mejor tratamiento fue el compuesto exclusivamente por compost de palma aceitera, ya que promueve el crecimiento y la nutrición mediante la mejora de las condiciones del sustrato.

Abstract Introduction. Low-fertility soils and high logistics costs for seedling production characterize the Peruvian Amazon. Objective. To evaluate the effect of a combination of sandy soil and oil palm compost on substrate, growth, and nutrition of cocoa seedlings under greenhouse conditions. Materials and methods. The experiment was conducted for 90 days in Yurimaguas, Loreto, using a completely randomized design in a 5 × 5 matrix, with five doses of oil palm compost and sandy soil to determine the best combination for cocoa growth and nutrition. Height (cm), diameter (mm), leaf area (cm2), dry weight of stem and root were measured; soil chemical analysis and plant analysis (macro and micronutrients) were also conducted. Results. Sandy soil showed no significant effect on cocoa seedlings, while treatments with oil palm compost promoted shoot and root biomass. Additionally, this compost favored conditions for seedling growth by promoting higher organic matter, available phosphorus, exchangeable calcium, potassium, and higher cation exchange capacity. Regarding cocoa nutrition, it promoted greater absorption of macro and micronutrients in seedlings. Conclusions. These results indicate that the best treatment was the one composed entirely of oil palm compost, as it promotes growth and nutrition by improving substrate conditions.

Abstract Okra (Hibiscus esculentus) is an annual herbaceous and non-traditional vegetable with high nutritional value and health benefits. Despite its importance, the lack of information on its cultivation in this region has led many Amazonian farmers to manage it empirically, combining foliar chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizers without a scientific basis for determining the most suitable combination. In this context, the objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of applying compost and chicken manure combined with foliar chemical fertilizers (Stimufol and Kristalon) on the development of aerial morphological traits of Hibiscus esculentus crops under field conditions in the Amazonian region of Ecuador. The experiment was conducted at the Experimental Center for Amazonian Research and Production of the Universidad Estatal Amazónica, using a completely randomized block design with two factors: organic fertilization and chemical foliar fertilization. Key morphological variables of the crop were evaluated, such as plant height, stem base diameter, number of leaves, petiole length, and leaf length and width. The results showed that plants treated with organic compost and chemical fertilizer Stimufol showed a significant increase in all morphological measurements compared to the other treatments. Finally, the combination of Stimufol and compost plays a crucial role in the development of okra's morphological attributes, while the absence of this treatment did not affect said attributes.

Resumen La okra (Hibiscus esculentus) es una planta herbácea anual y hortaliza "no tradicional" de gran valor nutricional y beneficios para la salud. A pesar de su importancia, la falta de información sobre su cultivo en esta región ha llevado a muchos agricultores amazónicos a gestionarla de forma empírica, combinando fertilizantes químicos foliares con abonos orgánicos sin una base científica para determinar la combinación más adecuada. En este contexto, el objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el impacto de la aplicación de compost y gallinaza combinado con fertilizantes químicos foliares Stimufol y Kristalon en el desarrollo de los rasgos morfológicos aéreos del cultivo Hibiscus esculentus, en condiciones de campo, en la región amazónica de Ecuador. El experimento se llevó a cabo en el Centro Experimental de Investigación y Producción Amazónica de la Universidad Estatal Amazónica, utilizando un diseño de bloque completamente al azar con dos factores: fertilización orgánica y fertilización foliar química. Se evaluaron variables morfológicas clave del cultivo, como altura de la planta, diámetro en la base del tallo, número de hojas, longitud del peciolo, longitud y ancho de la hoja. Los resultados demostraron que las plantas tratadas con abono orgánico compost y fertilizante químico Stimufol mostraron un notable incremento en todas las mediciones morfológicas en comparación con los otros tratamientos. Finalmente, la combinación de Stimufol y compost juega un papel esencial en el desarrollo de los atributos morfológicos de la okra, mientras que la falta de este tratamiento no tuvo efecto en dichos atributos.

ABSTRACT The research aims to determine the influence of different types of fertilisers on morphoagronomic indicators of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). It was carried out at the “Elpidio Sosa” Farm, in Sagua La Grande municipality, Villa Clara province, Cuba. A randomized block experimental design was used with the Crema VC - 504 cultivar and four treatments: Control (no application), NPK (40-30-30 kg ha-1), Compost (8 t ha-1), EcoMic® (0.8 kg + 480 mL H2O per 10 kg of seed). The results showed that in the NPK treatment the maximum values of plant height, dry mass production, seed number per plant, pod and seed weight per plant were obtained. It was shown that the application of NPK (40-30-30 kg ha-1) and Compost (8 t ha-1) had a favorable impact on seed and pod yield.

RESUMEN La investigación tiene como objetivo determinar la influencia de diferentes tipos de fertilizantes en indicadores morfoagronómicos del maní (Arachis hypogaea L.). Se realizó en la Finca “Elpidio Sosa”, del municipio Sagua La Grande, provincia Villa Clara, Cuba. Se empleó un diseño experimental de bloques al azar con el cultivar Crema VC - 504 y cuatro tratamientos: Control (sin aplicación), NPK (40-30-30 kg ha-1), Compost (8 t ha-1), EcoMic® (0,80 kg + 480 mL H2O por 10 kg de semilla). Los resultados mostraron que en el tratamiento NPK se obtuvieron los máximos valores de altura de la planta, producción de masa seca, número de semillas por planta, peso de frutos y de semillas por planta. Se demostró que la aplicación de NPK (40-30-30 kg ha-1) y de Compost (8 t ha-1) incidió favorablemente en los rendimientos agrícolas en frutos y semillas.

Abstract: One of the most important properties of a substrate is pH, which must be controlled to maintain levels between 5.3 and 6.5, and thus allow the production of good-quality seedlings. The objectives of this work were to evaluate strategies to maintain pH of pine bark compost-based substrate (SCCP) in the appropriate range and to verify its effect on the quality of seedlings of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.). Six treatments were evaluated: T1= SCCP with corrected pH and application of dolomitic solution (SD) during cultivation; T2= SCCP with uncorrected pH and application of SD during cultivation; T3= SCCP with corrected pH and application of calcium nitrate (NC) during cultivation; T4= SCCP with uncorrected pH and application of NC during cultivation; T5= SCCP with corrected pH; and T6= SCCP with uncorrected pH. At the end of the trial, the aerial (MSA) and root dry mass (MSR), stem length and diameter, mineral elements in the leaf, electrical conductivity and pH of the substrate were measured. T1, T3 and T5 recorded pH values within the appropriate range until the end of the trial. T2 and T4 had a low initial pH (4.13), and only T2 recorded a final pH within the desirable range (5.34). The morphological variables of the seedlings in T6 had the lowest values. MSA was higher in T1 and T5, coinciding with the higher leaf Ca and Mg content. Correcting the pH of the SCCP with dolomite before use and applying SD to the SCCP with uncorrected pH during cultivation were effective strategies for the production of good-quality yerba mate seedlings.

Resumen: Una de las propiedades destacadas en un sustrato es el pH, el cual debe controlarse para mantener niveles entre 5,3 y 6,5 y así posibilitar la producción platines de calidad. Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron evaluar estrategias para que el pH del sustrato a base de compost de corteza de pino (SCCP) se mantenga en el rango adecuado y comprobar su efecto sobre la calidad de plantines de yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil.). Se conformaron seis tratamientos: T1= SCCP con pH corregido y aplicación de suspensión dolomítica (SD) durante el cultivo; T2= SCCP con pH sin corrección y aplicación de SD durante el cultivo; T3= SCCP con pH corregido y aplicación de nitrato de calcio (NC) durante el cultivo; T4= SCCP con pH sin corrección y aplicación de NC durante el cultivo; T5= SCCP con pH corregido y T6= SCCP con pH sin corrección. Al finalizar el ensayo se midió la masa seca aérea (MSA) y radical (MSR), longitud y diámetro del tallo, elementos minerales en hoja, conductividad eléctrica y pH del sustrato. T1, T3 y T5 se mantuvieron dentro del rango adecuado de pH hasta el final del ensayo. T2 y T4 tuvieron un pH inicial bajo (4,13), pero sólo T2 finalizó dentro del rango deseado (5,34). Las variables morfológicas de los plantines de T6 tuvieron los menores valores. La MSA fue mayor en T1 (2,52 g) y T5 (2,61 g), en coincidencia con el mayor contenido de Ca y Mg foliar. Corregir el pH del SCCP con dolomita antes de su uso y aplicar SD al SCCP no corregido durante el cultivo fueron estrategias efectivas para producir plantines de yerba mate de buena calidad.

Resumen: En diferentes ensayos se ha evidenciado que el empleo, tanto del vermicompost (VC) como del acolchado plástico ha favorecido el rendimiento y la productividad de una gran cantidad de cultivos. El propósito del estudio fue equiparar la fertilización sintética vs la incorporación del VC sobre el desarrollo de la sandía triploide con acolchado plástico en el ciclo agrícola primavera-verano 2019, en el campo experimental de la Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro. Los tratamientos evaluados, cada uno con tres repeticiones, fueron: aplicación exploratoria de VC, a razón de 30 y 60 Mg ha-1, y como testigo, la recomendación regional 240-120-00 ha-1 (N-P-K). La siembra de semillas de sandía triploide, variedad Crunchy Red, se realizó en bandejas de unicel de 200 cavidades, rellenas con Peat Moss, cuando las plántulas tuvieron de dos a tres hojas verdaderas se realizó el trasplante, colocándolas a 1.0 m, entre éstas, sobre camas de siembra, de 2 × 8 m (ancho y largo, respectivamente) cubiertas con plástico negro. Para el suministro de agua se utilizó riego por cintilla. Para evaluar el efecto de los tratamientos se utilizó un diseño experimental completamente al azar, mientras que para las comparaciones de las medias se aplicó la prueba DMS0.05. Debido al efecto de los tratamientos evaluados cinco de las variables estudiadas: diámetros polar y ecuatorial, espesor de pulpa, sólidos solubles y peso del fruto registraron diferencias altamente significativas, mientras que el rendimiento presentó diferencia significativa. El mayor rendimiento de 29 932 Mg ha-1 se registró con la aplicación de 60 Mg ha-1 de VC, confirmándose que este producto logró cubrir la demanda nutritiva de la sandía triploide sin fertilización sintética.

Summary: In different trials have shown that the use of both vermicompost (VC) and plastic mulch has favored the yield and productivity of a large number of crops. The purpose of our study was to compare synthetic fertilization vs the incorporation of VC on the development of triploid watermelon with plastic mulch in the spring-summer 2019 agricultural cycle at the experimental field of the Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro. The treatments evaluated, each with three repetitions, were: exploratory application of VC, at a rate of 30 and 60 Mg ha-1, and as a control, the regional recommendation 240-120-00 ha-1 (N-P-K). The sowing was carried out in planting beds of 2 × 8 m (width and length, respectively) covered with black plastic. The sowing of the triploid watermelon seeds of the Crunchy Red variety, was carried out in Styrofoam trays with 200 cavities filled with Peat Moss. When the seedlings had two to three true leaves, they were transplanted 1.0 m apart on planting beds of 2 × 8 m (width and length, respectively) covered with black plastic. For the supply of water, drip irrigation was used. To evaluate the effect of the treatments, a completely randomized experimental design was used, the DMS0.05 test was applied for comparisons of the means. Due to the effect of the treatments evaluated, five of the variables studied: equatorial and polar diameters, pulp thickness, soluble solids and fruit weight presented highly significant differences, while yield registered a significant difference. The highest yield of 29 932 Mg ha-1 was recorded with the incorporation of 60 Mg ha-1 of VC confirming that this natural fertilizer was able to satisfy the nutritional needs of triploid watermelon without synthetic fertilization.

Resumen El estudio de respiración del suelo (emisión microbiana de CO2) por incorporación de residuos orgánicos (RO) provenientes de la agroindustria (bagazo y composta de bagazo), permite estimar el efecto ambiental en relación a la emisión de CO2 por la mineralización del carbono durante su proceso de descomposición, lo cual debe ser considerado desde el punto de vista de cambio climático. Por lo anterior, el objetivo fue evaluar la dinámica de emisión de CO2 por la mineralización de cuatro materiales lignocelulósicos, incorporados en suelos de diferente textura. Mediante la técnica de respiración alcalina se cuantificó la respiración de CO2 en Regosol y Luvisol por incorporación de dos bagazos (TBD y TBA) y sus compostas (TCD y TCA) durante 30 d bajo condiciones controladas de humedad y temperatura. Los tratamientos TBD y TBA incrementaron la actividad microbiológica con mayores emisiones; mientras que los tratamientos TCD y TCA incrementaron el contenido de C orgánico suelo (COS) con menores emisiones. La emisión de CO2 se relacionó con la mineralización de los RO y ésta a su vez con su composición química y su resistencia a la descomposición, además la dinámica de las emisiones fue diferente por tipo de material y por tipo de suelo. La incorporación de RO de tipo bagazos es una opción para incrementar la actividad microbiana edáfica, pero con mayor emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero (GEI); mientras que los RO de compostas generan un incremento en la captura de COS y, por ende, mayor almacén de C y una menor emisión de CO2.

Abstract The study of soil respiration (microbial CO2 emission) due to the incorporation of organic waste (RO) from agroindustry (bagasse and bagasse compost), allows estimating the environmental effect in relation to the CO2 emission, due to carbon mineralization during its decomposition process, which must be considered from the climate change point of view. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the CO2 emission dynamics due to the mineralization of four lignocellulosic materials, incorporated into soils of different textures. Using the alkaline respiration technique, CO2 respiration was quantified in Regosol and Luvisol by incorporating two bagasse (TBD and TBA) and their composts (TCD and TCA) for 30 d under controlled humidity and temperature conditions. The TBD and TBA treatments increased microbiological activity with higher emissions, while the TCD and TCA treatments increased the soil organic C (COS) content with lower emissions. The CO2 emission was related to the mineralization of the RO and this in turn to its chemical composition and resistance to decomposition; in addition, the dynamics of the emissions were different by type of material and of soil. The incorporation of bagasse type RO is an option to increase soil microbial activity, but with greater greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; while composted RO generates an increase in the capture of COS and, therefore, a greater store of C and a lower emission of CO2.

Abstract Introduction. Cocoa cultivation in tropical areas is a commercially viable agroecological alternative that allows for productive diversification and sustainable soil management through the use of organic fertilization. Objective. To evaluate the development of four cocoa varieties (INIFAP 4, INIFAP 8, INIFAP 9, and Almendra Blanca) under the climatic conditions of the Úrsulo Galván region, Veracruz, Mexico. Materials and methods. An experiment was conducted between winter (December 2021) and summer (June 2022), using a completely randomized design with four treatments and ten replications. Conventional agronomic management was employed, with the addition of 10 kg of compost per tree, followed by 3 kg of vermicompost. At four months into the study, 50 g of urea, 50 g of ammonium diphosphate, and 50 g of potassium chloride were incorporated. The study included analysis of variance and Tukey’s tests (α 0.05). Results. Statistical equality was found for height, diameter, and number of branches. The cocoa’s response to temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, and wind showed that these factors influenced the expression of its productive potential, as well as its morphology and yield, without adapting to the climatic conditions under study. Conclusion. The development of the studied varieties was homogeneous based on the climatic conditions of the Ursulo Galvan region, with the Almendra Blanca variety standing out.

Resumen Introducción. El cultivo del cacao en las zonas tropicales es una alternativa comercial de interés agroecológico, que permite la diversificación productiva y el manejo sustentable de los suelos al emplear abonado orgánico. Objetivo. Evaluar el desarrollo de cuatro variedades de cacao (INIFAP 4, INIFAP 8, INIFAP 9 y Almendra Blanca) en las condiciones climatológicas de la región de Úrsulo Galván, Veracruz, México. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un experimento, entre invierno (diciembre 2021) y verano (junio 2022), bajo un diseño completamente al azar, distribuido en cuatro tratamientos y diez repeticiones. El manejo agronómico fue convencional, se agregaron 10 kg de composta por árbol, seguidos de 3 kg de vermicompost. A los cuatro meses del estudio se incorporaron 50 g de urea, 50 g de difosfato de amonio y 50 g de cloruro de potasio. El estudio incluyó análisis de varianza y pruebas de Tukey (α 0,05). Resultados. Se encontró igualdad estadística para altura, diámetro y número de ramas. La respuesta del cacao a temperatura, precipitación, humedad relativa y viento, demostró que afectaron la expresión de su potencial productivo, así como su morfología y rendimiento, no adaptándose a las condiciones climáticas en estudio. Conclusión. El desarrollo de las variedades en estudio fue homogéneo, con base en las condiciones climatológicas de la región Úrsulo Galván, destacándose la variedad Almendra Blanca.

Resumen Os sistemas solo-cultivo do periurbano permitem recuperar elementos químicos do estrume gerado na produção pecuária intensiva, disminuindo o risco de contaminação de águas subterrâneas. Este estudo avaliou o efeto da aplicação de diferentes doses de compost de resíduos de feedlot no cultivo de alface (Lactuca sativa L.) e nas propiedades químicas, fisicoquímicas e biológicas do solo. Em dois anos consecutivos realizaram-se experimentos em estufa, aplicando doses equivalentes a 128 e 500 kg ha-1 de nitrogênio, determinando peso fresco e eficiência aparente de recuperação de N no cultivo, e no solo, conteúdo de nitratos, matéria orgânica, atividade biológica global, condutividade elétrica e pH. O rendimento do cultivo de alface incrementou-se entre o 29 e 55%, com eficiências de recuperação aparente de nitrogênio menores ao 5%. No solo, os efeitos manifestaram-se principalmente nos primeiros centímetros, com aumentos nos conteúdos de matéria orgânica, atividade biológica global e condutividade elétrica. Por outro lado, não teve câmbios significativos no pH nem no conteúdo de nitratos em profundidades maiores à conseguida pelas raizes do cultivo.

Abstract The soil-crop systems of the peri-urban area allow the recovery of chemical elements from the manure generated in intensive livestock production, reducing the risk of contamination of groundwater. This study evaluated the effect of the application of different doses of feedlot waste compost on the lettuce crop (Lactuca sativa L.) and on the chemical, physicochemical, and biological properties of the soil. In two consecutive years, greenhouse experiments were carried out applying doses equivalent to 128 and 500 kg ha-1 of nitrogen, determining fresh weight and apparent efficiency of nitrogen recovery in the crop, and in the soil, nitrate content, organic matter, activity overall biological, electrical conductivity, and pH. The yield of the lettuce crop increased between 29 and 55%, with apparent N recovery efficiencies of less than 5%. In the soil, the effects were mainly manifested in the first centimeters, with increases in the contents of organic matter, global biological activity, and electrical conductivity. On the other hand, there were no significant changes in the pH or nitrate content at depths greater than those reached by the roots of the crop.

Resumen Los sistemas suelo-cultivo del periurbano permiten recuperar elementos químicos del estiércol generado en la producción pecuaria intensiva, disminuyendo el riesgo de contaminación de aguas subterráneas. Este estudio evaluó el efecto de la aplicación de diferentes dosis de compost de residuos de feedlot en el cultivo de lechuga (Lactuca sativa L.) y en propiedades químicas, fisicoquímicas y biológicas del suelo. En dos años consecutivos se realizaron experimentos en invernadero, aplicando dosis equivalentes a 128 y 500 kg ha-1 de nitrógeno, determinando peso fresco y eficiencia aparente de recuperación de N en el cultivo, y en el suelo, contenido de nitratos, materia orgánica, actividad biológica global, conductividad eléctrica y pH. El rendimiento del cultivo de lechuga se incrementó entre el 29 y 55%, con eficiencias de recuperación aparente de nitrógeno menores al 5%. En el suelo, los efectos se manifestaron principalmente en los primeros centímetros, con aumentos en los contenidos de materia orgánica, actividad biológica global y conductividad eléctrica. Por otro lado, no hubo cambios significativos en el pH ni en el contenido de nitratos a profundidades mayores a la alcanzada por las raíces del cultivo.

Resumen La economía circular propende por la minimización de los residuos y la reducción del impacto ambiental basada en desviar el patrón lineal de producción, asumiendo el uso circular de materiales y productos, en el que se enmarca el uso del compost como biofertilizante para la agricultura. Bajo dicho entendido, el objetivo de este artículo es determinar el aporte del compost a las áreas destinadas para la bioagricultura y para la siembra de especies forestales. Los datos agregados son para 22 países europeos y se usó para los análisis el modelo de panel de datos. Los resultados muestran que el aporte del compost es apenas marginal para la bioagricultura y que en el caso de las especies forestales no existe una relación concluyente de su aporte.

Abstract The circular economy aims to minimize waste and reduce environmental impact by deviating from the linear production pattern. It assumes the circular use of materials and products, among which is the use of compost as a biofertilizer in agriculture. With this understanding, the objective of this article is to determine the contribution of compost to areas designated for bioagriculture and the planting of forest species. The aggregated data for 22 European countries were analyzed using the panel data model. The results indicate that the contribution of compost is only marginal for bioagriculture, and for forest species, there is no conclusive evidence of its contribution.

Abstract: Soil is a very valuable resource that humanity needs for its survival. In order to meet food demand, the agricultural sector has promoted intensive production, resulting in overexploitation and degradation of the soil. The incorporation of organic fertilizers, such as compost, has proved to be a good alternative to mitigate soil damage. However, the use of composts that do not meet quality standards can cause adverse effects. Therefore, it is of vital importance to know the changes and criteria to be considered in the composting process to produce high-quality organic fertilizers, capable of providing benefits to the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of the soil. The objective of this review was to compile information about changes in the composting process, and criteria and methodologies used to determine the quality of composts and ensure the benefits of their use.

Resumen: El suelo es un recurso muy valioso con el que cuenta la humanidad para su subsistencia. En el cumplimiento de la demanda alimentaria, el sector agrícola ha recurrido a la producción intensiva, trayendo como consecuencia una sobreexplotación y degradación del suelo. La incorporación de abonos orgánicos, como la composta, ha resultado ser una buena alternativa para enmendar los daños provocados a este recurso. Sin embargo, el uso de compostas que no cumplen con los estándares de calidad puede causar efectos adversos. Por ende, es de vital importancia conocer los cambios y los criterios que se deben considerar en el proceso de compostaje para la producción de abonos orgánicos de calidad, capaces de aportar sus beneficios a las características físicas, químicas y biológicas del suelo. El objetivo de esta revisión fue recopilar información sobre los cambios en el proceso de compostaje, y los criterios y las metodologías utilizadas para determinar la calidad de las compostas y asegurar los beneficios de su uso.

Resumen Las mejoras en sistemas productivos que utilizan el enfoque de manufactura esbelta conocido como “Lean” tienen el objetivo de eliminar o reducir desperdicios o ineficiencias de proceso (muda). Este enfoque es adoptado por diferentes sectores industriales, entre ellos el agrícola de manera reciente. Aunque tradicionalmente se aplican mejoras Lean en procesos ya existentes desde el cultivo hasta la distribución, se dejan de lado oportunidades de intervención de pérdidas de procesamiento (mermas). Este artículo presenta un enfoque metodológico enmarcado en principios Lean, conformado por actividades orientadas al diseño de nuevos procesos que dan uso de las mermas generadas por cosecha y transformación agrícola. Se aplica el enfoque metodológico en una finca cafetera colombiana en la que se desarrollan procesos de transformación de café pergamino. Se diseña un proceso paralelo de compostaje de mermas que transforma granos defectuosos, verdes, sobremaduros, pulpa de café, mucilago y cascarilla. Los resultados demuestran que al aplicar el enfoque metodológico en la finca cafetera se logra un nivel de transformación de mermas del 86%. También se reducen las muda tanto para la línea actual de producción de café pergamino como la de compostaje al 35% y 50% respectivamente. Las principales muda reducidas son reprocesos y tiempos de espera. Finalmente se obtiene una reducción del 30,3% en el tiempo de actividades que no agregan valor haciendo de los procesos tanto actual como propuesto más eficientes y con mejores tiempos de entrega.

Abstract Improvements in production systems that use the lean manufacturing approach known as “Lean” have the objective of eliminating or reducing waste or process inefficiencies (muda). This approach is increasingly adopted by different industrial sectors, including agriculture. Although Lean improvements are traditionally applied to existing processes from cultivation to distribution, opportunities to intervene in processing wastes (losses) are left aside. This article presents a methodological approach framed in five Lean principles, made up of six activities aimed at the design of new processes that make use of the losses generated by harvesting and agricultural transformation. The methodological approach is applied in a Colombian coffee farm where parchment coffee transformation processes are developed. A parallel losses composting process is designed that transforms defective, green, overripe beans, coffee pulp, mucilage and husk. The results show that by applying the methodological approach on the coffee farm, a level of losses transformation of 86% is achieved. Molting is also reduced for both the current parchment coffee production line and the composting line to 35% and 50% respectively. The main reductions are reprocessing and waiting times. Finally, a 30.3% reduction is obtained in the time of activities that do not add value, making both the current and proposed processes more efficient and with better delivery times.

Resumen En 2019, en Argentina se generaron normativas de nivel nacional para regular el uso de productos derivados de la fracción orgánica de los residuos: compost y enmiendas producidas por digestión anaeróbica. Este cambio normativo abre una ventana de oportunidad para impulsar el reciclaje de estos, ya que, además, representan alrededor del 50% del total de residuos urbanos generados en el país. En base a ello, este artículo busca identificar desafíos para la gestión sustentable en distintas escalas a partir de tres estudios de casos dentro de la Región Metropolitana de Buenos Aires: una megaciudad, un municipio de tamaño medio y un comedor universitario. A pesar de las diferencias entre los casos, se observa la importancia de la generación y sistematización de los datos puntuales de generación y tratamiento del residuo, la concientización de la población, la trazabilidad del residuo y, especialmente, la concientización de la población.

Abstract In 2019, national regulations were established in Argentina to regulate the use of products derived from the organic fraction of waste: compost and amendments produced by anaerobic digestion. This regulatory change opens a window of opportunity to promote the recycling of these products, as they represent around 50% of the total urban waste generated in the country. Based on this, this article aims to identify challenges for the sustainable management of these products at different scales through three case studies within the Metropolitan Region of Buenos Aires: a mega-city, a medium-sized municipality, and a university cafeteria. Despite the differences between the cases, the importance of generating and systematizing specific data on waste generation and treatment, public awareness, waste traceability, and especially public consciousness, is observed.

Resumo Em 2019, na Argentina, foram estabelecidas regulamentações nacionais para regular o uso de produtos derivados da fração orgânica dos resíduos: compostagem e emendas produzidas por digestão anaeróbica. Essa mudança regulatória abre uma janela de oportunidade para promover a reciclagem desses produtos, já que representam cerca de 50% do total de resíduos urbanos gerados no país. Com base nisso, este artigo tem como objetivo identificar desafios para a gestão sustentável desses produtos em diferentes escalas por meio de três estudos de casos na Região Metropolitana de Buenos Aires: uma megacidade, um município de tamanho médio e uma cantina universitária. Apesar das diferenças entre os casos, observa-se a importância da geração e sistematização de dados específicos sobre geração e tratamento de resíduos, rastreabilidade dos resíduos e, especialmente, conscientização pública.