Abstract
An increasing area of sugarcane is being growing for the production of bioenergy. Sugarcane puts a high demands on the soil due to the use of heavy machinery and because large amounts of nutrients are removed with the harvest. Biocides and inorganic fertilizers introduces risks of groundwater contamination, eutrophication of surface waters, soil pollution and acidification. This paper reviews the effect of commercial sugarcane production on soil chemical, physical and biological properties using data from the main producing areas. Although variation is considerable, soil organic C decreased in most soils under sugarcane and, also, soil acidification is common as a result of the use of N fertilizers. Increased bulk densities, lower water infiltration rates and lower aggregate stability occur in mechanized systems. There is some evidence for high leaching losses of fertilizer nutrients as well as herbicides and pesticides. Eutrophication of surface waters occurs in high-input systems. Sugarcane cultivation can substantially contribute to the supply of renewable energy, but that improved crop husbandry and precision farming principles are needed to sustain and improve the resource base on which production depends.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Proceedings 19th World Congress of Soil Science, Brisbane, Australia, 01 - 06 August, 2010 |
Editors | R.J. Gilkes, N. Prakongkap |
Pages | 13-15 |
Publication status | Published - 2010 |
Event | 19th World Congress of Soil Science, Soil Solutions for a Changing World, Brisbane, Australia - Duration: 1 Aug 2010 → 6 Aug 2010 |
Conference/symposium
Conference/symposium | 19th World Congress of Soil Science, Soil Solutions for a Changing World, Brisbane, Australia |
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Period | 1/08/10 → 6/08/10 |
Keywords
- sugarcane
- soil degradation
- acidification
- fuel crops
- leaching
- losses from soil
- pollution
- biobased economy