Mechanical weeding enhances ecosystem multifunctionality and profit in industrial oil palm

Abstract Oil palm is the most productive oil crop, but its high productivity associated with conventional management (that is, fertilization rates and herbicide application), causing deleterious environmental impacts. Using a 2 factorial experiment, we assessed effects of vs reduced (equal to nutrients removed by fruit harvest) mechanical weeding on ecosystem functions, biodiversity profitability. Analysing across multiple exhibited higher multifunctionality than treatment, although this effect was concealed when evaluating only for individual functions. Biodiversity also enhanced, driven 33% more plant species under weeding. Compared management, increased profit 12% relative gross margin 11% due reductions in material costs, while attaining similar yields. Mechanical reduced, compensatory mature plantations tenable option enhancing increasing profit, providing win–win situations.