Saltwater intrusion and climate change impact on coastal agriculture

Saltwater intrusion, exacerbated by climate change and droughts, poses severe threats to coastal agriculture, particularly in river deltas like the Po Delta (Italy) and Mekong Delta. This process impairs plant growth, reduces soil microbial activity, and lowers crop productivity due to increased salinity from marine water inland flow. The study identifies saltwater intrusion as a critical challenge for sustainable agricultural development, historical heritage preservation, and socio-economic stability in these regions. It also explores potential mitigation solutions to address this growing issue.

Tarolli, P., Luo, J., Straffelini, E., Liou, Y.-A., Nguyen, K.-A., Laurenti, R., Masin, R., & D’Agostino, V. (2023). Saltwater intrusion and climate change impact on coastal agriculture. PLOS Water, 2(4), e0000121. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pwat.0000121