Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) has proven to be a phytolith-occluded carbon (PhytOC)-rich species that plays a vital role in acting as a carbon sink for reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration. The present research estimated the silicon, phytolith, and PhytOC contents in four (OP4), eight (OP8), and fifteen (OP15)-year-old oil palm plantations. Qualitative analysis using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed the presence of abundant globular echinate phytoliths with varied diameter (8.484–10.18 μm) in fronds, empty fruit bunches, and roots. Furthermore, a wide band (400–490 cm^–1) underlined a higher relative abundance of Si–OH groups in empty fruit bunches, fronds, and roots, which emphasized the amorphous nature of silica. Quantitative analysis revealed that the phytolith (phytolith/dry biomass), PhytOC (PhytOC/phytolith), and PhytOC (PhytOC/dry biomass) contents in all oil palms differed significantly (p < 0.05) and increased with age. The PhytOC stock showed significant variation, with the trend of OP15 > OP8 > OP4. The belowground biomass of OP4 (16.43 g kg^–1) and OP8 (17.13 g kg^–1) had a maximum PhytOC concentration compared to the aboveground biomass, and the belowground proportion varied from 20.62 to 20.65%. The study demonstrated a positive correlation between the phytolith and PhytOC contents of oil palm; thereby, oil palm should be cultivated for enhanced long-term sequestration as a phytolith accumulator.

Chemical fertilizer usage has been a long-drawn criticism because of its harmful effects on the environment and on the quality of agricultural produce. Researchers are continually looking for more productive, better solutions while retaining societal wellbeing. Effective use of nano fertilizers in place of chemical fertilizers is essential in reducing fertilizer overuse and also contribute in lowering the pollution and leaching which in turn increase the effectiveness of nutrient consumption and also increase the yield of the crop. An experiment was carried out in paddy to study the influence of Nano urea applications on growth and microbial populations in soil. The field trial used a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatment combinations and three replications. Results showed that application of STCR based N as Urea (50%) and Nano Urea (2 sprays) and Recommended dosage of N as Urea (50%) and Nano Urea (2 sprays) recorded higher plant height, Leaf Area Index (LAI), Dry matter accumulation in paddy. In addition, applications of Nano urea increased the microbial population including bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes. Combining recommended dosage of fertilisers with nano urea spray at critical stages of paddy crop increases the crop growth and microbial activity.

Cassava is a tropical root vegetable from the Euphorbiaceae family, commonly cultivated for its starchy roots. It serves as a significant source of carbohydrates and calories, especially in Africa, where it contributes to more than 65 % of the global cassava production. Due to its long growth duration, broad spacing requirements, and slow early–stage development, this crop presents an opportunity for interplanting with short–duration species, thereby enhancing resource utilisation, land–use efficiency and overall biological productivity. Cassava–based intercropping is widely practised in tropical regions with moderate to high humidity. Intercropping offers several advantages, including enhanced pest control, improved soil health and more effective weed management. Growing cassava alongside short–term crops, such as maize or legumes, can enhance resource utilisation, increase yields and improve the efficiency of land use. The Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) assesses the biological efficiency and economic benefits of intercropping systems about monocultures. Cassava–maize intercropping is an extensively utilized and efficient system, as the crops exhibit complementary growth habits and resource needs. Growing cassava with legumes like cowpea, groundnut and soybean can boost soil fertility via nitrogen fixation, improve weed management and raise total productivity per land area. Intercropping can also reduce the risks associated with monoculture and offer additional sources of income for small landholders.

The Earth's fresh water resources predominantly is groundwater that is pumped out due to rapid urbanization and aggravated by climate change. Groundwater modeling is a crucial tool for understanding aquifer systems, employing 1D, 2D, and 3D numerical models with distinct applications. One-dimensional models focus on vertical dynamics, examining aquifer properties and simulating vertical contaminant transport. Two-dimensional models extend to regional scales, considering horizontal variations and assessing groundwater-surface water interactions, making them valuable for watershed-scale studies. Three-dimensional models provide a comprehensive representation of hydrogeological systems, capturing intricate flow patterns and aiding site-specific assessments. Comparative analysis reveals model strengths and limitations, emphasizing the importance of calibration for reliable results. Case studies showcase practical applications, such as 1D models in flooding analysis and 2D models for simulating debris flows. Three-dimensional modeling proves essential for understanding complex river-aquifer exchange fluxes. Future directions call for a global groundwater platform to address data variability and technical challenges. Despite substantial investments required, the anticipated returns in scientific advancements, societal benefits, and economic gains are expected to outweigh the initial costs. This review aims in highlighting the significance of advancing all three-dimension groundwater modeling for sustainable water resource management and environmental protection.