Circular Economy Approaches in Sustainable Horticultural Systems: Significance of Nutrient Standardisation and Soil-Less Cultivation

Abstract

The agricultural community is witnessing a shift from traditional linear take, make, dispose patterns to the application of circular economy principles, which are more resource-efficient, minimize wastes, and environmentally sustainable. This paper conducts a critical evaluation of the global application of circular economy principles to horticultural practices, specifically on soil-less culture systems, nutrient standardization, and precision management systems. The analysis was conducted on peer-reviewed publications, policies, and technology developments from Indo-Dutch partnership ventures, Indian sustainable agricultural practices, and Dutch-European greenhouse vegetable production systems. The paper reveals the essential knowledge gaps that exist in regional implementation techniques, economic viability, and monitoring systems, and the important role that nutrient standardization plays within circular horticultural systems to promote environmentally sustainable horticultural practices. The implications from the paper suggest that, despite the enormous potential of circular horticulture for sustainable intensification, further advancements are required in the application of innovative technologies, policies, and regional adaptability of nutrient management systems.