Author(s): VILELA, L.; MARCHAO, R. L.; GUIMARAES JUNIOR, R.; PULROLNIK, K.

Summary: ABSTRACT The use of integrated systems in Brazil started in the beginning of 20th Century. Since then, with the evolution of researches focused on the soil-plant-animal-forest interactions, several integrated systems have been shaped in association to farmers. The main benefits provided by the synergies among crops and pastures are: increase animal productivity by restoring pasture yields, increase crop productivities by improvements in the soil?s physical, chemical and biological properties and the interruption of biotic cycles of weeds, pests and diseases. The main positive impacts on the environment are related to soil and water conservation, increases in soil organic carbon and land-saving effect. From an economic standpoint, mixed systems allow a more rational use of inputs, improvements in cash flow and reduction of the economic risks. The greater nutrients cycling from forages associated to more efficient use of fertilizers by crops saves fertilizers and reduce the production costs. Integrated crop-livestock (ICL) and crop-livestock-forestry systems (ICLF) might be considered as a key strategy to promote sustainable intensification in agriculture.

Publication year: 2021

Types of publication: Paper in annals and proceedings

Unit: Embrapa Cerrados

Keywords: Agricultura Sustentável, Cerrado, Conservação do Solo, Economia da Terra