Soil is a depletable and non-renewable resource essential for food production, crop growth, and supporting ecosystem services, such as the retaining and cycling of various elements, including water. Therefore characterization and preservation of soil biological health is a key point for the development of sustainable agriculture. We conducted a comprehensive review of the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques to develop forecasting models based on soil microbiota data able to monitor and predict soil health. We also investigated the potentiality of AI-based Decision Support Systems (DSSs) for improving the use of microorganisms to enhance soil health and fertility. While available studies are limited, potential applications of AI seem relevant to develop predictive models for soil fertility, based on its biological properties and activities, and implement sustainable precision agriculture, safeguarding ecosystems, bolstering soil resilience, and ensuring the production of high-quality food.

Among European countries, Italy is the most exposed to the risk of biological invasions, principally for its numerous entry points (ports and airports) and for climatic conditions favorable for the acclimatization of several invasive species. Here it was assessed that the greatest threats to our agro-ecosystems come mainly from the passenger baggage in which a variety of fruits and vegetables are carried. From 2016 to 2021, large quantities of plant products were found in the luggage of passengers travelling from outside the EU and seized at the BCPs (border control posts) in the Campania region. Inspections and the following laboratory analyses were conducted on the plant material to assess the presence of exotic pests. Inspections led to several non-native species being recorded, and among the intercepted organisms, some should be considered “alarming”, such as Bactrocera dorsalis, Anastrepha obliqua, and Leucinodes africensis. Despite a well-organized border inspection system, travelers transporting infested material unknowingly contribute to increasing the risk of the introduction of exotic species. Given the current situation, it is necessary to impose stricter controls and greater attention, ensuring compliance with the requirements of the new phytosanitary regulations by the actors involved in the transport of plant material. Finally, it is essential to improve awareness through a phytosanitary campaign on plant health risks, especially for people wishing to transport fruits and vegetables in their luggage.