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Vegetation-based Ecological Functions Sustainability Index (VEFSI) for optimizing ecosystem services in orchards

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Listed:
  • Bruno, Ilaria
  • Mania, Ilaria
  • Lovera, Matteo
  • Brondino, Luca
  • Peano, Cristiana

Abstract

The need to quantify sustainability in agriculture and the ecosystem services it provides is increasingly felt by the sector. Indicators and indices are useful tools for this purpose, but are currently scarce in the specialized fruit-growing sector. In addition, there is a need for a more holistic view of the orchard system, which also considers unproductive spaces, such as the inter-row, where techniques can be implemented to improve adaptation to climate change.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruno, Ilaria & Mania, Ilaria & Lovera, Matteo & Brondino, Luca & Peano, Cristiana, 2025. "Vegetation-based Ecological Functions Sustainability Index (VEFSI) for optimizing ecosystem services in orchards," Agricultural Systems, Elsevier, vol. 223(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:agisys:v:223:y:2025:i:c:s0308521x24003366
    DOI: 10.1016/j.agsy.2024.104186
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