Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Soils and Water Research Dept., Radioisotope Application division, Nuclear Research Center, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, 3 Ahmed El-Zomor St. Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
2
Agricultural and Biological Research Institute, National Research Center
3
Department of Field Crops Research, Agricultural and Biological Research Institute, National Research Centre 33 El-Bohouth St., (formerly El-Tahrir St.), Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
Abstract
The use of chemical (synthetic) fertilizers can increase soil production, but they also seriously jeopardize food safety, ecosystem components, and long-term soil fertility. Sustainable farming methods can maintain soil fertility and productivity while slowing the depletion of natural resources. During mineral weathering, organic fertilizer derived from natural sources (food waste, livestock manure, agricultural biomass, etc.) promotes the release of nutrients into the soil and serves as a source of microbial culture. The application of chemical (synthetic) fertilizers can boost soil productivity; however, it often compromises long-term soil fertility, food safety, and environmental sustainability. In newly reclaimed sandy soils, such as those in Egypt, integrating mineral and organic fertilizers offers a promising approach to address these challenges. Organic fertilizers from natural sources, such as food waste, livestock manure, and agricultural biomass, not only support microbial activity and nutrient cycling but also improve soil physical properties. This study evaluates the yield response of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and the uptake of natural radionuclides under various combinations of mineral and organic fertilizers, emphasizing their role in enhancing soil structure and ensuring food safety.
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