Conservation agriculture

Training Certificate issued by INEA-University School of Agricultural Engineering.

Content:

• Analysis of current agricultural problems from an agronomic, economic, and environmental perspective: This module will conduct a comprehensive, multidisciplinary analysis of the main problems facing modern agriculture, considering agronomic factors such as soil degradation, pest and disease resistance to agrochemicals, irrigation water scarcity, and intensive agricultural practices that deplete natural resources. In addition, economic challenges will be addressed, such as fluctuating agricultural product prices, dependence on subsidies, and lack of access to efficient production technologies. From an environmental perspective, the negative effects of conventional agricultural practices will be examined, such as nitrate water pollution, biodiversity loss, greenhouse gas emissions, and desertification.
  
• Knowledge and analysis of potential solutions to agricultural problems: This section will focus on innovative and sustainable solutions being developed and applied to mitigate contemporary agricultural problems. Approaches such as precision agriculture, the use of biotechnologies for crop improvement, biological pest control, the implementation of agroforestry systems, and the promotion of organic farming practices that promote soil regeneration will be studied. In addition, macroeconomic and political solutions will be addressed, such as subsidy policies for sustainable practices, agricultural carbon markets, and international agreements on fair trade and sustainable agriculture.
  

• Deepening Conservation Tillage: This module will focus on agronomic techniques for conservation tillage, such as direct seeding, soil erosion control through practices like mulch and crop rotation, and the implementation of terraces and living barriers to protect soils from degradation. The importance of reducing mechanical soil tillage will be discussed in order to preserve soil structure, improve water retention, increase biological activity, and reduce the emission of CO2 stored in the soil. Techniques for restoring degraded soils, such as organic fertilization and the use of green manures, will also be analyzed.
  
  Learning and developing sustainable agriculture that promotes environmental protection: This segment will provide a detailed approach to how to integrate sustainable agricultural practices into daily agricultural production. Key principles of sustainable agriculture will be covered, such as integrated pest management (IPM), crop rotation and diversification, regenerative agriculture, and the importance of healthy agroecosystems in climate change mitigation. Strategies for sustainable water management, efficient use of natural resources, and integrating biodiversity into farms will also be explored. The module will also include the study of sustainable agricultural certifications such as organic farming, conservation agriculture, and regenerative agricultural production.

Goals

• Analyze current agricultural problems at both the agronomic, economic, and environmental levels.
• Know possible solutions to these problems.
• Deepen conservation work.
• Learn how to practice sustainable agriculture while taking care of our planet.