Scientia et Technica Año XXVIII, Vol. 30, No. 01, enero-marzo de 2025. Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira. ISSN 0122-1701 y ISSN-e: 2344-7214
58
Abstract— Water conservation is essential for agricultural
sustainability and adaptation to climate change. Agroforestry
systems, which integrate trees and sometimes animals in the same
production unit, offer hydrological benefits superior to those of
conventional agricultural systems, positioning them as a key
strategy for water resource management in agricultural areas.
However, in Colombia, publications on the subject are limited.
Understanding their dynamics is crucial to preserving water
quality, especially in sectors such as fish farming, which is vital for
biodiversity and ecosystem services. This study aimed to perform
a bibliometric and systematic analysis of the Web of Science (WoS)
database; the data were examined using graph theory and
specialized tools such as VOSviewer and Tree of Science,
investigating in diverse perspectives that explore the association
between agroecological structures, water quality and
conservation. The analysis was structured in three categories:
roots (classic), trunk (structural) and branches-leaves (recent);
inclusion and exclusion criteria were also applied, adopting certain
guidelines of the PRISMA protocol (Preferred Reporting Items for
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses); 61 relevant references
were identified, highlighting Chen, Hung-Chih as the most cited
author, and the United States and China as the leading countries
in research on the subject. It was concluded that agroforestry
systems are fundamental to conserve and improve water quality,
promoting ecological agriculture and fish farming, welfare and
sustainability, contributing to regional economic development;
furthermore, there are knowledge gaps and it is necessary to have
policies for the construction, research and implementation of these
systems.
Index Terms— Agroecological systems, ecosystem services,
pollutants, water conservation, water quality.
Resumen— La conservación del recurso hídrico es esencial para
la sostenibilidad agrícola y la adaptación al cambio climático. Los
sistemas agroforestales, que integran árboles y en ocasiones
animales en una misma unidad de producción, ofrecen beneficios
hidrológicos superiores a los de los sistemas agrícolas
convencionales, posicionándolos como una estrategia clave para la
gestión de recursos hídricos en áreas agrícolas. Sin embargo, en
Colombia, las publicaciones sobre revisión del tema son limitadas.
Comprender su dinámica es crucial para preservar la calidad del
agua, especialmente en sectores como el piscícola, vital para la
biodiversidad y los servicios ecosistémicos. Este estudio tuvo como
This manuscript was submitted on June 22, 2025. Accepted on October
26, 2024. And published on march 31, 2025.
This article was developed as part of the research entitled “Integration of
knowledge for the conservation of water quality in the fish farming sector” of
the PhD in Sustainable Development of the University of Manizales .
Kelly Johana Meléndez Segura, PhD student in Sustainable Development.
E-mail: kmelendez105065@umanizales.edu.co
objetivo realizar un análisis bibliométrico y sistemático de la base
de datos Web of Science (WoS); los datos fueron examinados
utilizando la teoría de grafos y herramientas especializadas como
VOSviewer y Tree of Science, investigando en diversas
perspectivas que exploran la asociación entre estructuras
agroecológicas, calidad y conservación del agua. Se estructuró el
análisis en tres categorías: raíces (clásicos), tronco (estructurales)
y ramas-hojas (recientes) de igual forma se aplicó criterios de
inclusión y excusión adoptando ciertas directrices del protocolo
PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and
Meta-Analyses); se identificaron 61 referencias relevantes,
destacando a Chen, Hung-Chih como el autor más citado, y a
Estados Unidos y China como los países líderes en investigaciones
sobre el tema. Se concluyó que los sistemas agroforestales son
fundamentales para conservar y mejorar la calidad del agua,
promoviendo la agricultura y piscicultura ecológica, el bienestar y
la sostenibilidad, aportando al desarrollo económico regional;
además que existen brechas de conocimiento y es necesario que
existan políticas para la construcción, investigación e
implementación de estos sistemas.
Palabras claves— Calidad del agua, conservación del agua,
contaminantes, servicios ecosistémicos, sistemas agroecológicos.
I. INTRODUCTION
W
ATER is an essential resource for life and agricultural
production, the quality of which is critical to the health
of ecosystems and human communities. Without clean water,
fundamental activities such as irrigation, livestock raising, fish
farming and the maintenance of ecosystem services are
seriously compromised.
However, water quality can deteriorate due to various human
activities, especially those related to intensive agriculture.
Excessive use of fertilizers, pesticides, and other agrochemicals
leads to leaching of nutrients into groundwater, surface runoff
that contaminates water bodies with sediments and chemicals,
and soil erosion, which increases water turbidity and reduces
sunlight penetration. In addition, the use of untreated
wastewater for irrigation represents a significant risk to water
security and public health.
Henry Reyes Pineda, professor, University of Manizales, CIMAD Research
Group. E-mail: hreyes@umanizales.edu.co
Jhon Fredy Betancur, professor, Universidad de Manizales, CIMAD
Research Group. E-mail: jbetancur@umanizales.edu.co
Bibliometric analysis of water resource quality
conservation in agroecological structures
Análisis bibliométrico de la conservación de la calidad del recurso hídrico en estructuras
agroecológicas
K. J. Meléndez-Segura ; H. Reyes-Pineda ; J. F. Betancur-Pérez
DOI: https://doi.org/ 10.22517/23447214.25744
Scientific and technological research paper
Scientia et Technica Año XXVIII, Vol. 30, No. 01, enero-marzo de 2025. Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira.
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All of the above leads to the quest for water quality
conservation, which is crucial to ensure agricultural
sustainability, protect the health of populations and preserve
ecosystems. Aquatic systems require clean water to maintain
biodiversity and provide essential services such as climate
regulation and natural water filtration. In addition, the
availability of quality water plays a key role in climate change
adaptation, as healthy ecosystems are more resilient to extreme
weather events.
To mitigate the negative impact of agricultural activities on
water quality, several sustainable management strategies have
been developed. These include agroforestry, integrated pest
management, efficient fertilizer use, wastewater recycling, and
riparian zone protection. The implementation of these practices
is essential to ensure access to clean water in the future and to
promote the sustainability of agricultural and natural systems.
In this context, bibliometric analysis is presented as a
valuable tool to consolidate and evaluate scientific knowledge
in this area. By means of statistical methods, it makes it possible
to analyze academic production, identify research trends and
evaluate the impact of published studies. According to Gómez,
Gutiérrez and Pinzón (2005), cited in Gaitán Sánchez et al. [1],
this approach facilitates obtaining relevant data on citations,
authors, institutions and countries with the highest scientific
production in a specific topic.
Bibliometric indicators fulfill two key functions: descriptive,
which characterizes the state of knowledge in each area, and
evaluative, which assesses this state from a specific perspective
(Gómez, Gutiérrez & Pinzón, 2005, cited in Gaitán Sánchez et
al., [1]).
To develop this research, a search was conducted in the Web
of Science (WoS) database using the search terms:
“Agroecological Structure*” OR “Main Agroecological
Structure” OR “Agroecological Planning” OR “Agroecological
System*” OR “Agroforestry System*” (Topic) and “water
quality” OR “water conservation”. From this search, 61
references were obtained and analyzed using the WoS “Results
Analyzer” tool, which made it possible to examine frequencies
and generate relationship matrices, subsequently exported to
Excel for detailed analysis. Additionally, the VOSviewer tool
facilitated the graphical visualization of interaction networks
between authors, countries and other key descriptors.
The search strategy was precisely designed to gather relevant
scientific literature on the relationship between agroecological
structures and water conservation and quality, to explore the
next two research questions:
What has been the evolution of scientific knowledge on
agroforestry systems and contributions to water quality and/or
conservation?
What are the lines of research and future perspectives
between agroforestry systems and water quality and/or
conservation?
The objective of this research was to conduct a bibliometric
and systematic analysis on water quality and/or conservation in
agroecological structures, using the WoS database as the main
source. To organize the documents obtained, the Tree of
Science tool [2] was used, whose tree diagram categorizes the
publications according to their relevance: the roots represent the
classic documents, the trunk groups the structural studies, and
the branches and leaves correspond to the most recent and
emerging articles on the subject.
This study contributes to the understanding of the current
state of research at the intersection between agroecology and
water quality, providing a solid foundation for future lines of
research and the development of sustainable management
strategies in the agricultural sector.
Despite the increasing attention on agroecology and water
management, the scientific literature still presents a significant
gap in the detailed understanding of how agroecological
structures can optimize water conservation at different spatial
and temporal scales. In particular, there is a lack of studies that
quantitatively and qualitatively integrate the impact of these
structures on improving water quality and water efficiency in
diverse agricultural systems. In addition, the interaction
between agroecological practices and climate change in relation
to water conservation is still a developing area of research.
This study is relevant both locally and globally, as challenges
related to agricultural water conservation are common in
multiple regions of the world. In a local context, the results can
guide water management policies and sustainability strategies
tailored to specific ecosystems, contributing to improve the
resilience of agricultural communities. At the global level,
bibliometric analysis has facilitated the exchange of knowledge
between different regions and productive contexts.
II. TYPE OF STUDY AND ANALYSIS MATERIAL
A. Type of study and analysis material
The bibliometric analysis was performed using data
extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) database, chosen for
being one of the most recognized sources for the evaluation of
scientific production. This platform includes journals of great
prestige and high visibility in multiple areas of knowledge,
Archambault, (2009), cited in Gaitán Sánchez et al., [1]
The search was carried out using the following equation:
“Agroecological Structure*” OR “Main Agroecological
Structure” OR “Agroecological Planning” OR “Agroecological
System*” OR “Agroforestry System*” (Topic) and “water
quality ‘OR ’water conservation” (Topic) and Article or
Review Article (Document Types), taking into account only
articles and review articles, in addition to a window of
observation between 2014 and 2023 to broaden the panorama
and analyze research and innovations.
B. Bibliometric Variables
In the initial phase, the following bibliometric indicators
were defined: number of publications, countries, authors and
their connections, academic institutions and total number of
citations. Relationship and collaboration indicators were also
considered, with the aim of creating thematic maps reflecting
the interactions between authors and countries, as well as the
co-occurrence of the selected keywords.
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C. Bibliometric Data Collection and Analysis
Data collection was carried out using the established search
equation, followed by downloading the records in plain text
format from the Web of Science (WoS) database. To manage
bibliometric indicators, the WoS “Analyze Results” and
VOSviewer tools were used, while frequency calculations and
visual representations were performed using tables and graphs
in Microsoft Excel.
D. Systematic Analysis of Collected Documents
With the 61 records obtained in WoS, metrics related to the
degree of input, degree of output, and intermediation were
evaluated, which made it possible to classify the research using
the metaphor of trees [3]. From this analogy, three key
categories emerge. The first is the “Root” (high centrality),
which refers to classic literature or research that possesses
dominant theoretical importance within the field of study.
These publications are frequently cited, although not
necessarily referenced by other authors [4]. The second
category corresponds to the “Main Body” (high
intermediation), which includes those articles that are not only
cited, but also serve as references in works cited by others [5],
this section constitutes a structured work that combines
fundamental classical theory with current research. Last are the
“Branches and Leaves” (high out-degree), which represent
recent articles focused on citing other studies and reflecting
current trends within the field's research framework. These
publications, also called “perspectives,” delineate emerging
research fronts and articles [4]. This methodology has been
previously validated and applied in previous studies [6] [7].
Likewise, the results extracted from the WoS database were
systematized in an Excel spreadsheet, analyzing key
information such as titles, abstracts, keywords, main findings
and number of citations. Finally, with the information collected
and its analysis, the main challenges to advance in the
application and conservation of water quality in agroecological
structures were identified.
E. Inclusion And Exclusion Criteria
In order to ensure accuracy, transparency and reproducibility
in the selection of studies, this research adopted certain
guidelines of the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) protocol [8]. The
inclusion and exclusion criteria applied in the process are
detailed below:
1. Inclusion criteria
Type of publication
Only research and review articles published in peer-reviewed
scientific journals were selected, thus ensuring the validity and
reliability of the data analyzed. Other forms of publication, such
as conference proceedings, book chapters and gray literature,
were discarded due to the absence of a rigorous peer review
process.
Thematic relevance
Only studies that explicitly addressed the relationship
between agroecological structures and water quality
conservation were included. This selection criterion ensured
that the literature analyzed was aligned with the research
objectives, allowing for a focused and relevant analysis.
Language
Initially, no language restrictions were established in the
search process. However, the 61 studies finally selected were
published in English, since this language predominates in the
international scientific literature.
Time frame
The review addressed studies published between 2014 and
2023, to include the most recent developments in water quality
conservation and the role of major agroecological structures.
2. Exclusion criteria
Gray literature
Gray literature, such as reports from non-governmental
organizations and conference proceedings, was discarded in
order to prioritize studies published in peer-reviewed journals,
thus ensuring scientific rigor.
Selection process
Study selection was carried out following the phases
established in the PRISMA protocol, with the complementary
incorporation of a bibliometric analysis through the Tree of
Science platform. This integration made it possible to structure
the selection process in a systematic and chronological manner,
optimizing identification.
Identification
A search was carried out in the Web of Science database,
applying the search equation specified above. Initially, a set of
studies directly linked to synergies between pollinators and
floral stripes was identified. Subsequently, the selected articles
were subjected to a detailed analysis using the Tree of Science
algorithm, which made it possible to evaluate their impact and
relevance.
Detection
Tree of Science analyzed the initially identified studies
together with their citations, generating a structured selection of
key articles. These were classified into three levels: roots
(seminal publications), trunks (seminal studies) and leaves
(recent research). Subsequently, an independent review of titles
and abstracts was conducted to discard those that did not meet
the predisposed criteria.
Eligibility
Studies that passed the screening phase were subjected to a
rigorous evaluation to verify their relevance and scientific
quality. Additional exclusion criteria were applied to ensure
that only the most relevant and methodologically sound papers
were included in the final analysis. This process involved a
detailed review of the objectives, methodological approaches
and findings of each study, as well as confirmation of its
publication.
Final inclusion
Research that met all the inclusion criteria and satisfactorily
passed the previous phases were incorporated into the
systematic and bibliometric analysis.
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61
Minimum citation threshold
No minimum citation threshold was established as a
requirement for the inclusion of studies in the systematic
review. We sought to integrate both seminal research with a
high impact on the scientific literature and recent studies that,
although they have not yet accumulated a significant number of
citations, represent advances and emerging trends in the field.
During the bibliometric analysis, citation metrics were used to
identify the most influential papers, classifying them within the
Tree of Science (ToS) categories: roots (seminal publications),
trunks (structural studies) and leaves (recent research).
III. RESULTS
A total of 61 documents were identified in this study, in
which research articles predominated with 80.33% (49 articles)
followed by subject reviews with 19.67% (12 articles). It is
important to mention that the search period was from January
01, 2014, to December 31, 2023.
A. Production indicators.
Fig 1 shows the scientific production in the defined period,
where a growing trend is evident in the dissemination of
research specifically from the year 2019 to 2020 and 2022 to
2023, but at the same time a decline could be observed in the
years 2017 and 2021; the year 2023 illustrates the highest
number of publications reaching 11 articles being 18.033% of
the reported publications. The scientific community has interest
in the field of knowledge with an annual growth rate of 10.65%,
from the first year of review in 2014 to 2023. The citations in
the year 2014 was 1 being the lowest in the range of time taken,
reaching the maximum in 2023 with a total of 364.
When analyzing the scientific production by country, the
United States leads the scientific production with 15
publications, representing 24.6%, followed by China with 18%,
and finally England, Greece and Spain with 6.6% each, Table 1
shows the global impact of academic production on research
associated with water quality and/or conservation in
agroecological structures.
In relation to the authors, 10 most representative authors
were found Table II, who are categorized by the number of
documents published in the database, Chen, Hung-Chih from
Kunming University, who has had the most publications,
followed by Liu, Wenjie, and Nettles, Jami from China
University and Weyerhaeuser Company respectively, in
addition, their H-index (H-index), which is used to describe the
scientific output of researchers, is correlated [9], where Liu,
Fig. 1. Scientific production on water quality and/or conservation in
agroecological structures and its products per year.
0
5
10
15
0
100
200
300
400
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Publicaciones
Número de Publicaciones
Número de Citaciones
Año
TABLE I
PRODUCTION OF ARTICLES BY COUNTRY
No
País
Publicaciones
%
1
USA
15
24.6%
2
CHINA
11
18.0%
3
FRANCE
8
13.1%
4
INDIA
8
13.1%
5
GERMANY
7
11.5%
6
BRAZIL
6
9.8%
7
COSTA RICA
4
6.6%
8
ENGLAND
4
6.6%
9
GREECE
4
6.6%
10
SPAIN
4
6.6%
TABLE II
MOST RELEVANT AUTHORS
N
o
Autor
Publicacione
s
Citacione
s
Indic
e H
Universidad
1
Chen,
Hung-Chih
4
1810
25
Kunming
University
2
Liu,
Wenjie
4
2356
30
University of
Chinese
Academy of
Sciences
3
Nettles,
Jami
2
285
10
Weyerhaeus
er Company
4
Tian,
Shiying
2
649
11
North
Carolina
State
University
5
Chescheir,
George M.
2
1856
24
North
Carolina
State
University
6
Jiang,
Xiao-Jin
2
1277
20
Northeast
Forestry
University -
China
7
Cacho,
Julian F.
2
72
4
North
Carolina
State
University
8
Zhu, Xiai
2
664
14
University of
Chinese
Academy of
Sciences
9
Wu, Junen
2
844
15
University of
Chinese
Academy of
Sciences
1
0
Youssef,
M. A. S.
2
1344
19
National
Authority for
Remote
Sensing &
Space
Sciences
(NARSS)
Scientia et Technica Año XXVIII, Vol. 30, No. 01, enero-marzo de 2024. Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira
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Wenjie and Chen, Hung-Chih were found with an index of 30
and 25 respectively.
The journal with the highest impact in the search is
SUSTAINABILITY, in second place AGROFORESTRY
SYSTEMS and AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS in third place,
the journals in this review are indexed in the databases and all
are part of quartile 1. Within the top 10 and with more
importance are journals from Switzerland in first place, the
Netherlands in second and third place, and the United Kingdom
in second place (Table III).
Figure 2 illustrates the four elements of relevance that are
part of the bibliographic analysis, in the first box Fig. 2A is the
network of collaboration between authors, each node
representing an author. In this case, the authors included in the
network are Cacho, Julian F, Chescheir, George M., Tian,
Shiying, Nettles, Jami E., and Youssef, Mohamed A. The size
of the nodes reflects the number of publications or
collaborations that each author has in this specific network. All
authors appear to have similar node size, indicating an equal
contribution in terms of collaborations.
Lines connect the nodes, representing collaborations
between authors, the thickness of the lines could indicate the
frequency or strength of collaborations between authors. In this
graph, all authors are connected to each other, suggesting a very
cohesive collaborative team.
There are no clear subgroups in this network, indicating that
all authors collaborate closely with each other. The distribution
of connections is even, which may indicate that there is no “lead
author” in the network, but a more horizontal collaborative
approach.
In this way, it can be indicated that this collaborative network
is typical of a well-integrated research team, where all members
collaborate directly with each other. The lack of subgroups or
clusters indicates that this team probably works on highly
interconnected projects or on a single common project.
In the second (Fig. 2B) is the co-citation network between
authors; the lines connecting the nodes represent co-citations,
i.e., how many times have two authors been cited together in
other papers. The thickness and color of the lines can indicate
the strength of the co-citation relationship. Thicker or more
intensely colored lines usually represent more frequent co-
citation. Authors Jose, S, Nair, Pkr and Lal, r appear to be
related through co-citations, although not directly between Jose,
S and Lal, r. This could indicate that Nair, pkr acts as a bridge
between Jose, S and Lal, r. The intensity of the connections
suggests that these authors have been cited together on several
occasions, which could indicate a scholarly collaboration or that
They work on similar topics that are co-cited together.
The country collaboration network Fig. 2C highlights the
United States, Brazil, India, China, Germany and France, the
size of the nodes could indicate the number of publications or
international collaborations in which each country is involved.
In this case, the United States appears to be a central and largest
node, suggesting a dominant role in collaborations.
TABLE III
UNITS FOR MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
N
O
REVIST
AS
PUB
LICA
CIO
NES
POR
CEN
TAJ
E
CU
AR
TIL
SJR
H-
IND
EX
PAÍS
1
SUSTAI
NABILI
TY
4
6.6%
Q1
0.67
169
Switzerland
2
AGROF
ORESTR
Y
SYSTE
MS
3
4.9%
Q1
0.51
92
Netherlands
3
AGRICU
LTURA
L
SYSTE
MS
2
3.3%
Q1
1.59
134
United Kingdom
4
AGRICU
LTURE
BASEL
2
3.3%
Q1
0.61
66
Switzerland
5
AGRICU
LTURE
ECOSYS
TEMS
ENVIRO
NMENT
2
3.3%
Q1
1.74
212
Netherlands
6
ANIMA
LS
2
3.3%
Q1
0.7
75
Switzerland
7
CATEN
A
2
3.3%
Q1
1.5
164
Netherlands
8
GEODE
RMA
2
3.3%
Q1
1.76
203
Netherlands
9
LAND
2
3.3%
Q1
0.73
54
Switzerland
1
0
LAND
DEGRA
DATION
DEVEL
OPMEN
T
2
3.3%
Q1
1.16
105
United Kingdom
Fig. 2A Network of collaboration between authors
Fig.2B Author cocitation network
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The lines connecting the nodes represent collaborations
between countries, i.e., joint publications or projects. The
United States is a central node collaborating with both countries
such as Brazil and India on one side of the network, and China,
Germany, and France on the other. This reflects the central role
of the US in global scientific and academic collaboration. Brazil
and India are more strongly connected to the U.S. but do not
appear to have direct relationships with the other countries in
the network. This could indicate that their international
collaboration is mainly concentrated in the United States.
China, Germany, and France are interconnected with each
other, in addition to their connection to the U.S. This suggests
an axis of collaboration between these countries, with China
playing an important role within this sub-network. The absence
of direct links between Brazil, India, and European countries or
China could reflect that these countries' collaborations are
mediated primarily through the United States. Finally, in the
keyword co-occurrence network fig. 2D, the nodes and lines are
colored to reflect different clusters or groups of keywords that
are most closely related to each other, the red cluster focuses on
themes of “biodiversity”, “ecosystem services”,
“conservation”, and “management”. This suggests a group of
keywords related to the management and conservation of
biodiversity and ecosystem services. The green cluster groups
words such as “agroforestry”, “land-use”, “soil fertility”, and
“water conservation”. This cluster seems to be related to
sustainable agriculture and land management, especially in the
context of agroforestry. The blue cluster contains words such as
“food security” and “climate change”. This cluster seems to
focus on food security and how it is affected by climate change.
The network shows a strong interaction between concepts
related to ecosystem management, sustainable agricultural
practices, and climate change impacts.
The “management” node acts as a central bridge, connecting
several important themes. This suggests that management is a
key concept linking diverse areas such as biodiversity
conservation and land use sustainability. The presence of well-
defined clusters indicates that although there is overlap between
topics (e.g., the relationship between agroforestry and
ecosystem services), there are also more specialized areas of
research within the general field of environmental sustainability
and management.
B. Network analysis
Through this analysis, the most relevant documents on the
topic can be identified, and the metaphor of a scientific tree was
used to select documents with the highest metrics for review
and organization [2]. Five classic (root), five structural (trunk)
eleven (branches), and eight recent (leaves) [8].
C. Classic documents (Root)
The research articles presented below, related to water quality
and/or conservation and agroecological structures, are rooted in
this literature review, standing out for their relevance in the
field. In this sense, five (5) fundamental registers are analyzed
which, as described above, present classic dispositions and
dominances in the literature.
In this context, agroforestry systems constitute an innovative
approach to achieve sustainable agriculture, allowing high crop
yields and the protection of soil and water resources. In the
present study, the efficiency of these systems in reducing
contaminants in groundwater and surface water was
determined. The results indicated an attenuation of nutrient
leaching to groundwater of up to 97.7% and 90% for nitrogen
and phosphorus, respectively, and up to 100% attenuation for
both pollutants in surface runoff. In addition, several studies
evidenced the capacity of agroforestry systems to reduce the
presence of pesticides, with pollutant retention of up to 100%
for various types of herbicides and fungicides, although only in
runoff mitigation. However, insufficient research has yet been
conducted to evaluate soil and groundwater protection against
leaching of agrochemicals, especially pesticides. Therefore,
further studies and policy implementation are required to
maximize the practical benefits of these systems for agriculture,
the environment, and ultimately human health and well-being
[10].
According to Jose [11], in conventional farming systems,
crops absorb less than half of the applied nitrogen and
phosphorus. Therefore, excess fertilizer is removed through
surface runoff or leached into the subsoil, thus contaminating
water sources and decreasing their quality. In this context,
agricultural surface runoff can lead to excess sediment,
nutrients and pesticides in receiving water bodies, contributing
to eutrophication in the Gulf of Mexico.
Fig 2C. Country collaboration network
Fig 2D. Keyword co-occurrence network
Fig. 2: networks.
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Based on this, agroforestry practices have proven to be an
effective strategy for providing potable water. Among these,
agroforestry systems include riparian buffers that contribute to
the cleansing of runoff water by slowing its velocity, promoting
infiltration, sediment deposition, and nutrient retention. A
buffer of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and woody stem
removed 20% more nutrients. In addition, trees with deep root
systems can improve groundwater quality by acting as a “safety
net”, recycling nutrients through root turnover and litterfall,
which improves the efficiency of nutrient use in the system.
Studies have reported this mechanism in both tropical and
temperate regions, suggesting that agroforestry systems could
play a substantial role in mitigating water quality problems
generated by intensive agricultural practices [11].
On the other hand, in the Brazilian semi-arid region,
inadequate soil management practices have exacerbated erosive
processes. In this context, agroforestry systems have been
identified as a viable alternative to reduce water erosion. The
evaluation of the impact of two agroforestry systems (one
traditional and one intensive) in comparison with natural
vegetation and a conventional agricultural system, revealed that
agroforestry systems were more efficient in reducing water
erosion, reducing contamination and loss of water quality.
Therefore, their adoption is recommended as a sustainable
technical alternative for food production in the region [12].
Likewise, the integration of trees into pastures has proven to
be an effective strategy to mitigate water pollution. Studies
comparing three types of pastures - one without trees (Paspalum
notatum), a pasture under 20-year-old pines (Pinus elliotti) and
a pasture of native vegetation under pines - concluded that
silvopastoral systems allow a more efficient uptake of nutrients,
especially phosphorus, compared to pastures without trees. In
addition, the capacity of soils under these systems to receive
additional phosphorus is greater, thus reducing nutrient
leaching to surface water and mitigating water pollution [13].
Finally, the adaptation of agricultural systems to climate
change is crucial, given that this phenomenon can generate
negative impacts on agricultural production. According to Lin
[14], the resilience of agricultural systems can be improved
through greater crop diversification. However, there are barriers
such as economic incentives to produce specific crops, the
focus on biotechnological strategies and the perception that
monocultures are more productive. In this regard, crop and
landscape simulation models can help farmers find optimal
strategies to maintain production and profitability.
Understanding the potential for greater diversity within
agricultural systems is essential for coping with climate
variability. By adopting practices that foster ecosystem services
for pest control, disease and climate resilience, farmers can
reduce the risk of production losses and strengthen their
capacity to adapt to environmental changes.
In summary, this review has addressed, in the first instance,
the definition of agroforestry systems, followed by the
problems derived from conventional agriculture and, finally,
the specific benefits of agroforestry practices, highlighting their
relevance in climate change adaptation and water conservation.
D. Structural documents (Trunk)
Within the structural documents of the knowledge tree, key
trends in research development are identified, particularly in the
following areas:
Agroforestry systems, which combine trees with crops or
pastures, have been widely implemented in temperate and
tropical regions due to their effectiveness in reducing water, soil
and nutrient loss, as well as mitigating water pollution
generated by agricultural activities. However, despite their
widespread use, there are still few scientific reviews that
comprehensively evaluate their efficiency and scope,
considering factors such as soil type, management practices,
climatic conditions and the hydrological processes involved.
Therefore, it is essential to develop systematic studies that
allow the generalization of agroforestry design and its
adaptability in regions with similar climatic, geographic,
ecological and socioeconomic characteristics worldwide [15].
The progressive deterioration of surface and groundwater
quality in recent decades has increased interest in identifying
sources of contamination. Agricultural intensification, driven
by the need for high quality crops and high yields, has led to
excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, resulting in negative
impacts on the environment, especially on soil and water
bodies. A study conducted in experimental agricultural fields in
the Mediterranean, in which N, P and K ions, as well as the
herbicides pendimethalin, its metabolite M455H001 and s-
metolachlor, together with the insecticide chlorpyrifos, were
analyzed, showed that agroforestry systems, such as corn-
poplar and potato-poplar associations, can significantly
decrease water pollution. In particular, tree roots have the
capacity to absorb excess agrochemicals, preventing them from
leaching into groundwater by leaching or being transported to
surface water by runoff [16].
On the other hand, multiple studies have shown that land use
patterns significantly influence water infiltration capacity.
Increasing infiltration and reducing runoff are fundamental
aspects for soil and water resource conservation, especially in
semi-arid environments. In this regard, research conducted on
the Loess Plateau in China compared three planting systems
over 11 years and concluded that agroforestry systems
significantly improve soil infiltration and soil sustainability,
particularly in semi-arid areas. These findings offer new
insights into the applicability of agroforestry in regions with
similar conditions around the world [17].
In recent decades, it has become evident that agroforestry not
only contributes to the protection of natural resources, but also
allows maintaining or increasing agricultural productivity. In a
study developed in Xishuangbanna, southwest China, Wu JN
[18], evaluated a rubber-based agroforestry system, finding that
intercropping with legumes significantly improved water use
efficiency and tree tolerance to adverse conditions. The rubber
trees showed more stable physiological indices and higher
water efficiency, suggesting that this strategy is highly
beneficial for water conservation.
Finally, Panwar's [19], study examined the effectiveness of
agroforestry systems for soil and water conservation on sloping
land in the Shivalik region of India. By combining
silvihortipastoral practices and the implementation of water
harvesting structures, a significant reduction in soil loss was
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achieved, as well as an increase in runoff retention. These
results underscore the potential of agroforestry as a viable
strategy for resource conservation in sloping areas, and its
integration into land-use planning is recommended as an
effective alternative for the development of sustainable
agriculture in challenging environments.
E. Recent Perspectives (Branches)
In the review conducted, three branches were identified that
encompass specific sub-areas within the knowledge domain
analyzed. These branches encapsulate articles focused on
diverse topics derived from cluster analysis and allow the
identification of relevant trends within the field of study [2].
One of these fundamental perspectives is the interconnection
between water resources and energy and biomass production, a
topic of growing relevance in the context of environmental
sustainability and conservation.
Perspective 1. Water and energy production.
The relationship between water resources and energy
generation is crucial for sustainable development. In this
context, property rights over natural resources have been a key
legislative tool to promote their responsible use and
conservation globally. However, the incorporation of
ecological property rights could significantly modify farmers'
investment behavior in forests and water resources. This
approach could strengthen forest protection, optimize water
conservation and, consequently, improve water security in
urban areas [20].
The progressive depletion of global land and groundwater
reserves, resulting from prolonged overexploitation,
underscores the need for effective management of these vital
resources. The growing demand for water and soil due to
accelerated population growth emphasizes the urgency of
maintaining their integrity without compromising productivity.
In this sense, agroforestry emerges as a promising strategy,
since the integration of trees and shrubs into agricultural
practices not only improves soil fertility and reduces erosion,
but also optimizes water retention and conservation, favoring
the soil's absorption capacity and hydraulic properties.
An emblematic example of the interdependence between
water and energy is the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) in China, one
of the largest hydropower infrastructures in the world. This dam
has generated important benefits, such as drinking water
supply, irrigation, power generation and flood control.
However, it has also caused adverse environmental impacts,
such as eutrophication in secondary rivers due to the
accumulation of nutrients in the impounded water. This
highlights the need for accurate and controlled water
management to mitigate negative effects, such as algal blooms,
which requires a detailed understanding of the interactions
between main streams and their tributaries [21].
Also, large-scale bioenergy production significantly affects
the hydrological cycle. According to Watkins et al. [22], it
influences processes such as canopy interception,
evapotranspiration, infiltration, runoff and aquifer recharge.
These impacts vary according to the type of biomass, soil
characteristics, agricultural practices and hydroclimatic
conditions. In addition, the interaction between bioenergy and
water management is intrinsically linked to land use, water
availability and competing demands for this resource in
watersheds. Therefore, policies related to water and bioenergy
should be evaluated not only in terms of efficiency and
effectiveness, but also considering their socioeconomic impacts
and their effect on vulnerable communities.
Thus, an integrated and multidisciplinary approach is
essential to ensure equitable and sustainable management of
water resources in the context of energy and biomass
production. Only through coordinated strategies will it be
possible to avoid exacerbating water conflicts and ensure the
long-term viability of these production systems.
Perspective 2. Integration of ecosystem services and
ecological modernization in agroforestry systems.
Contemporary agriculture is facing increasing criticism due
to its predominantly productivist approach, which often
neglects the supporting and regulating services provided by
ecosystems. In this context, agroforestry and ecological
modernization strategies emerge as key alternatives to promote
sustainability and improve human quality of life through the
provision of multiple ecosystem services (ES) [23] [24].
Agroforestry systems can provide ecosystem benefits that
contribute to both farm sustainability and human well-being.
Notaro et al. [23], studied four ecosystem services in coffee
agroforestry systems in Nicaragua: coffee production, water
quality preservation, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity
conservation. Their findings revealed that carbon sequestration
depended more on the presence of large trees than on coffee
yield, while tree biodiversity favored productivity up to a
certain threshold, after which yield decreased. This underscores
the importance of a moderate density of shade trees to optimize
both production and SE provision.
Water quality and conservation are fundamental elements in
agroforestry systems. The preservation of water sources and the
optimization of water use guarantee not only the sustainability
of the crop, but also the resilience of the ecosystem in the face
of climatic changes. Agroforestry, by promoting vegetation
cover and water infiltration into the soil, helps to regulate the
hydrological cycle and reduce erosion, ensuring long-term
water supply.
Additionally, Padovan et al. [25] addressed the impact of
land pressure and the need to maximize income, which forces
smallholders to cultivate in suboptimal areas. In a study in
Nicaragua, they analyzed water use efficiency in agroforestry
systems versus full-sun systems, demonstrating that
agroforestry allows more efficient water use under adverse
conditions. Most of the soil water was used for coffee
transpiration rather than being lost to evaporation or consumed
by shade trees. Two shade tree species, Tabebuia rosea and
Simarouba glauca, were compared, providing valuable
information for the selection of species that optimize water use
and improve the resilience of the agroforestry system to water
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variability.
Therefore from an ecological modernization perspective,
Duru [24] identifies two key approaches: (1) efficiency
substitution agriculture, which seeks to optimize input use and
minimize environmental impacts, and (2) biodiversity-based
agriculture, which develops SE through biological
diversification. To facilitate this transition, Duru proposes a
transdisciplinary conceptual and methodological framework
that involves agronomic innovations and coordination among
actors in the supply chain and natural resource management.
This approach requires technological, social, economic and
institutional changes, enabling local actors to design adaptive
action plans that foster the diversification and sustainability of
agricultural systems.
In this way it can be emphasized that the integration of
ecosystem services in coffee agroforestry systems not only
improves agricultural productivity and sustainability but also
contributes significantly to environmental conservation. Water
quality and conservation play a crucial role in the stability of
these systems, ensuring both productivity and ecosystem
resilience. To maximize these benefits, it is essential to
maintain an adequate density of shade trees and select species
that optimize water use and biodiversity.
In addition, the transition to biodiversity-based agriculture
requires a holistic approach involving innovations at multiple
levels and close collaboration between the different
stakeholders involved. Implementing these strategies can lead
to agroecological intensification that balances agricultural
production with the conservation of natural resources, thus
ensuring the long-term sustainability of agroforestry systems.
Perspective 3: Heavy metals and emerging contaminants in
agroforestry systems.
Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic global pollutant that persists
in aquatic ecosystems Li et al., [26] highlights how mercury,
used in large quantities during the Manhattan project in Oak
Ridge, Tennessee, still contaminates the surrounding
watershed. Soil erosion and rainfall-runoff events contribute to
mercury transport from nonpoint sources into aquatic
ecosystems. Proper site management, such as improving
vegetative cover and reducing slopes, is critical to reducing this
mercury transport, where low plants play a crucial role in
phytostabilizing the pollutant.
Agroforestry has been shown to be an effective strategy to
control soil erosion and improve agricultural sustainability in
semi-arid areas. Huang et al., [27] discusses how agroforestry
systems influence soil water storage (SWS) and how the
proximity of forest plantations can affect this storage, especially
at the afforestation-cropland interface (ACI). In particular,
species such as S. Japonica are recommended for their lower
impact on soil water availability, making them a valuable
option for improving the ecological environment and long-term
sustainability in these regions.
Zhang et al., [28] stress the importance of “source-sink”
landscape pattern analysis for nonpoint source pollution
management. Remote sensing is presented as an effective
technique to study these patterns and their relationship with
water quality, despite technical challenges. Advances in this
area have made it possible to optimize landscape management
to reduce pollution, which is crucial for the protection of water
resources and the construction of ecological security patterns.
Béliveau et al., [29] highlights the negative effects of soil
erosion in the Amazon, where traditional agriculture has
contributed significantly to soil degradation and the release of
natural mercury into water bodies. Agroforestry practices in the
Brazilian Amazon have proven to be effective in reducing both
soil erosion and mercury mobility, making them a sustainable
solution for agricultural management and environmental
conservation. These practices not only conserve soil, but also
reduce pollution, making agroforestry an essential tool for the
protection of Amazonian ecosystems.
Finally, Pascual Aguilar et al., [30] addresses the emerging
pollution problem in Mediterranean wetlands, such as
L'Albufera de Valencia, where human impact and
socioeconomic development have generated a high
concentration of pollutants, including pharmaceuticals and
pesticides. The research highlights the urgent need to
implement measures to mitigate this pollution and protect these
ecosystems of great ecological value, thus ensuring water
sustainability and ecosystem health for future generations.
F. Leaves
Agroforestry systems (AFS) are consolidated as a key
strategy for agricultural sustainability and conservation of
natural resources, especially in terms of water and soil quality.
According to the review conducted by François et al. [31], the
implementation of AFS contributes significantly to the
reduction of nutrient losses, such as nitrogen (N) and
phosphorus (P), whose accumulation derived from the intensive
use of chemical fertilizers has generated serious water pollution
problems. In addition, these systems favor the improvement of
the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil,
promoting its water retention capacity and reducing erosion.
Likewise, PBS have demonstrated a remarkable potential in the
elimination of trace metals such as cadmium, aluminum and
mercury in contaminated soils, strengthening their role as an
integral agroecological tool. However, factors such as surface
geology, slope gradient and topographic conditions can
negatively influence water quality in watersheds, underscoring
the need for strategic planning in their implementation.
In this context, Ntawuruhunga et al. [32] emphasize the
importance of climate-smart agroforestry (CSAF) as a
comprehensive solution for climate change mitigation and
adaptation, particularly in rural areas. This approach combines
trees, crops and livestock in sustainable production systems,
optimizing water use and contributing to water security.
However, the adoption of CSAF still faces significant
challenges, especially among smallholder farmers, due to lack
of knowledge and technical support. Therefore, the study
highlights the need to strengthen evidence-based public
policies, foster public-private partnerships and promote
multidimensional initiatives that facilitate their effective
implementation, thus ensuring their positive impact on food
security, poverty reduction and the resilience of water
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ecosystems.
In Indonesia, Sudomo et al. [33] highlight agroforestry as a
crucial mechanism for improving food security and access to
water, especially among smallholder farmers. By adapting
agroforestry practices to local conditions and market needs,
sustainable incomes are generated that enable rural
communities to strengthen their resilience to climate change. In
addition, crop diversification in these systems improves water
infiltration into the soil and reduces surface runoff, reducing
pollution of water bodies and promoting the resilience of water
ecosystems.
Srinivasarao et al. [34] address soil degradation in India as a
critical problem that threatens water security and agricultural
sustainability. The study highlights the need to adopt integrated
soil and water conservation technologies aimed at minimizing
erosion and fostering the development of resilient climate
change communities. To this end, it proposes the strengthening
of community capacities and the creation of local institutions to
manage and maintain these conservation structures in the long
term, thus ensuring the sustainability of water resources in
vulnerable rural environments.
From an environmental governance perspective, Li [20]
analyzes the impact of ecological property rights on the
promotion of sustainable agroforestry practices in the Heihe
Reservoir region, Shaanxi, China. The implementation of these
rights has proven to be effective in reducing soil erosion and
improving water management, in turn facilitating food security
and increased income for local communities. However, the
study points out that to maximize its impact, it is necessary to
clarify the allocation of rights and strengthen government
support through financial incentives and technical assistance.
In the livestock area, Pinheiro Machado Filho et al. [35]
present the Voisin rational grazing system (VRG) as a
sustainable agroecological alternative that optimizes animal
productivity while improving soil and water quality. This model
integrates multi-species grasslands with SAF, promoting
ecosystem regeneration, carbon absorption and water retention
in the soil, which contributes to the protection of water sources
and biodiversity. Despite its high potential, the implementation
of GBV requires a long-term vision and a comprehensive
approach to overcome the associated technical and
socioeconomic barriers.
On the other hand, Platis et al. [36] emphasize the need to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture, aligning
agroforestry systems with the objectives of the Paris Agreement
on climate change. These systems, in addition to minimizing
the use of non-renewable energy, improve water use efficiency
and significantly reduce the water and carbon footprint of
agricultural production. The adoption of methodologies such as
life cycle assessment is crucial to measure and mitigate the
environmental impact of these systems, strengthening the long-
term resilience of agroecosystems.
Finally, Bardule et al. [37] analyze the effectiveness of
juvenile hybrid poplar plantations in agroforestry systems in
reducing leaching of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus,
and potassium in the Baltic Sea region. Despite the use of
fertilizers, a significant decrease in pollution of water bodies
was evidenced, reaffirming the potential of PBS to improve
water quality and promote sustainable agriculture.
Taken together, this research demonstrates that agroforestry
systems represent a viable and effective alternative for water
quality conservation in agroecological environments. However,
their success depends on a strategic implementation that
considers ecological, social and economic factors, as well as the
strengthening of public policies and governance mechanisms
that facilitate their adoption and long-term sustainability.
IV. DISCUSSION
A review of 61 records obtained in WoS was carried out
using the metaphor of trees [3]. In agroecological systems,
water quality and conservation are fundamental, given that
these systems seek agricultural sustainability through the
integration of practices that respect and preserve natural
resources. Agroforestry systems, which combine trees with
crops or pastures, stand out as a key strategy to mitigate the
negative impacts of conventional agriculture, such as
groundwater and surface water contamination due to the
excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides.
A literature review shows that agroforestry systems can
reduce nutrient leaching to groundwater by up to 97.7% for
nitrogen and 90% for phosphorus and can remove up to 100%
of these pollutants in surface runoff [10]. In addition, these
systems offer a solution for pesticide depletion, protecting
vulnerable water bodies, although more research is needed to
fully address agrochemical leaching into the soil.
The adoption of agroforestry practices has also proven to be
effective in semi-arid regions, as in the case of Brazil, where
they have significantly reduced water erosion, a critical factor
in water pollution and loss of water quality [12]. On the other
hand, the integration of trees in pastures can prevent the loss of
nutrients to water bodies, thus improving surface and
groundwater quality [13].
It is also crucial to consider the adaptation of these systems
to climate change. Crop diversification, a practice promoted
within agroforestry, can increase the resilience of agricultural
systems to climate variability, reducing the risk of
contamination and deterioration of water resources [14].
In systems where water is a limited resource, fish farming
can be integrated to make the most of available water, using the
same resource for multiple purposes: fish farming, crop
irrigation, and wetland maintenance. By integrating fish
farming with other agricultural activities, environmental
impacts, such as eutrophication of water bodies due to nutrient
runoff, can be reduced, as well-designed systems can recycle
these nutrients rather than allowing them to pollute rivers and
lakes.
Thus, agroforestry systems have multiple benefits for water
quality and conservation in agroecological systems, acting as a
natural barrier that reduces pollution, improves water
infiltration and reduces soil erosion.
While interest in the relationship between agroforestry
systems and water quality has increased, knowledge gaps
persist that require additional research. In particular, limitations
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have been identified in quantifying the long-term impacts of
these systems on soil hydrodynamics and the composition of
microbial communities involved in nutrient recycling [17].
Recent studies have pointed out the need to evaluate the
capacity of agroforestry systems for biofiltration of emerging
pollutants such as pesticides and heavy metals, as well as their
impact on improving groundwater quality [27].
On the other hand, variability in the design and management
of agroforestry systems poses a challenge for the generalization
of their hydrological effects. There is a need to develop
comprehensive models to more accurately predict the water
efficiency of different agroforestry designs under climate
change scenarios, especially in regions vulnerable to aridity
[18].
The results of this study present significant implications for
the design of public policies and sustainable water management
strategies in agricultural contexts. The incorporation of
agroforestry systems in territorial planning could improve water
security and climate resilience of rural communities, reducing
dependence on conventional water sources and mitigating the
effects of climate variability [15]. It has been shown that these
systems can reduce irrigation water demand by up to 30% by
optimizing infiltration and soil moisture retention [13].
However, the transition to these systems requires the
establishment of economic incentives, the strengthening of
technical training and the development of regulatory
frameworks that promote their large-scale implementation
[19]. In this sense, payment for environmental services (PES)
programs have shown to be an effective tool to incentivize the
adoption of sustainable agroforestry practices in various regions
of the world.
To strengthen the knowledge base on the relationship
between agroforestry systems and water quality, the
development of interdisciplinary studies that integrate
ecohydrology, biogeochemistry and hydrological process
modeling approaches is recommended [23]. In addition, the
application of emerging technologies, such as satellite remote
sensing and remote sensing water quality monitoring, would
allow a more accurate assessment of the dynamics of these
systems at different spatial and temporal scales [21]. Long-term
studies that analyze the impact of ecological succession on the
ecosystem services of agroforestry systems and their
contribution to water resilience are required.
On the other hand, it is essential to foster international
collaborations that allow the comparison of different
geographical and socioeconomic contexts, facilitating the
design of strategies adapted to local needs [24]. The integration
of agroforestry systems into local and global water governance
frameworks should be a priority approach to ensure their
effective and sustainable implementation.
V. CONCLUSIONS
The bibliometric and systematic study has identified key
trends in scientific production on water conservation and
quality in agroecological structures. A sustained growth in the
amount of research published in the last decade was evidenced,
with a predominance of studies coming from the United States
and China, suggesting a strong interest in the application of
agroforestry systems as a mitigation and adaptation strategy in
the face of global environmental challenges.
Results confirm that agroforestry systems play a determining
role in improving water quality, reducing pollution by nutrient
and agrochemical leaching by up to 97.7% and favoring water
retention in soils [10]. In addition, these systems contribute to
the regulation of the hydrological cycle, decreasing erosion and
improving water infiltration by up to 60% compared to
conventional systems. These advantages are crucial in the
context of climate change, where water conservation and
ecosystem resilience are critical for agricultural sustainability.
Despite these findings, knowledge gaps persist in quantifying
the long-term impacts of these systems in different soil types
and climates, as well as their effectiveness in biofiltration of
emerging pollutants [27]. The development of more accurate
hydrological models and the strengthening of interdisciplinary
research integrating ecohydrology, biogeochemistry, and
remote sensing approaches are recommended to assess the
water efficiency of these systems under different environmental
scenarios [21].
Thus, it is crucial that policy makers recognize the potential
of agroforestry systems in water conservation and encourage
their adoption through economic incentives and payment for
environmental services programs. The integration of these
systems into water governance frameworks will contribute to
long-term water security and sustainability of agricultural
production in regions vulnerable to water stress.
This study reinforces the importance of agroforestry systems
in sustainable water management, highlighting both their
potential and the challenges that remain in their
implementation. It calls on the scientific community and policy
makers to promote applied research and the development of
innovative strategies to maximize the benefits of these systems
for water conservation. It is recommended to strengthen the
generation of scientific evidence on the long-term effects of
agroforestry systems on water quality, mitigation of diffuse
pollution and water security in contexts of high climate
vulnerability.
Finally, given that climate change will continue to exert
increasing pressure on global water resources, agroforestry
systems represent a viable alternative to improve ecosystem
resilience and ensure the sustainability of agricultural
production in the future.
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71
Meléndez-Segura, K. J., received the Bs.
Eng in environment Engineering, specialist
in environmental pedagogy and master's
degree in teaching exact and natural
sciences from the National University of
Colombia. Currently, a PhD student in
sustainable development. His research
interests include: water quality, water
resource conservation. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-
1311-7956
Reyes-Pineda, H, PhD Researcher in
Chemical and Nuclear Engineering, Master
in Membrane Technologies,
Electrochemistry, Environment and Nuclear
Safety, Specialist in Electrochemical
Engineering and Corrosion, Specialist in
Environmental Education, Chemical
Engineer. Professor of the Master's Degree in Environment and
Sustainable Development at the University of Manizales,
Manizales, CIMAD Research Group. Caldas (Colombia).
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9475-1910
Betancur-Pérez, J. F., Ph.D in
Agricultural Sciences. Specialist in
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Researcher Teacher – School of Medicine.
Director of the BSI Integrated Biosystems
research line. CIMAD Research Group,
University of Manizales. ORCID:
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5979-1498