SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES: ASSESSING ENVIRONMENTAL, ECONOMIC, AND SOCIAL DIMENSIONS FOR LONG-TERM VIABILITY
Abstract
Sustainable agriculture is increasingly essential for addressing climate change, resource degradation, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and rural economic vulnerability. This study assessed the long-term viability of sustainable agricultural practices by examining interactions among environmental quality, economic performance, and social sustainability across diverse farming systems. A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design involved 240 farms from twenty-four agricultural communities representing conventional, conservation, agroforestry, organic, and climate-smart systems. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multivariate analysis, structural equation modeling, hierarchical regression, mediation, and moderation analyses, while qualitative data from interviews, stakeholder discussions, field observations, and policy documents were examined thematically. Results showed that sustainable practices significantly improved soil health, biodiversity conservation, water-use efficiency, crop productivity, farm profitability, household food security, and community resilience. Soil health was the strongest predictor of productivity, biodiversity conservation enhanced ecosystem resilience, and institutional support strengthened adoption through knowledge exchange and collaborative governance. The findings indicate that long-term agricultural sustainability depends on integrating environmental stewardship, economic resilience, and social participation rather than focusing solely on productivity. The proposed framework provides practical guidance for policymakers, extension services, and rural communities seeking resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible food systems. These insights support evidence-based strategies for sustainable agricultural transformation across varied contexts.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Johan Setiawan, Ryan Brown, Tasha Campbell

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