A Novel Crop Shortlisting Method for Sustainable Agricultural Diversification across Italy

Whilst current policies recognize the impacts that changes in climates and markets have imposed on Italian food system, less attention is given to development of systematic approaches identify alternative cropping systems across Italy European continent. In this article, a novel evidence-based crop shortlisting method was developed address diversification needs for as an example whole Europe. order shortlist possible options from pool 2700 crops, crop–climate–soil matching exercise performed territory, crops with more than 70% suitability were chosen further analysis. second phase, multi-criteria ranking index employed assign ranks four main types: (i) cereals pseudocereals, (ii) legumes, (iii) starchy roots/tubers, (iv) vegetables. To provide comprehensive analysis, all abovementioned criteria compared both major are grown region potential underutilised (UCs). The results evaluation (namely (a) calorie nutrition demand, (b) functions uses, (c) availability accessibility their genomic material, (d) possession adaptive traits, (e) physiological traits) revealed teff, faba bean, cowpea, green arrow arum, Jerusalem artichoke, Fig-leaved Gourd, Watercress. We discuss implication utilising such selection developing transformative solutions security aim providing primer mainstreaming UCs policy investment plans.