Agricultural Benefits of Shelterbelts and Windbreaks: A Bibliometric Analysis

Cristian Mihai Enescu (), Mircea Mihalache, Leonard Ilie, Lucian Dinca, Cristinel Constandache () and Gabriel Murariu
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Cristian Mihai Enescu: Department of Soils Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Romania, 59 Mărăști Boulevard, 1st District, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
Mircea Mihalache: Department of Soils Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Romania, 59 Mărăști Boulevard, 1st District, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
Leonard Ilie: Department of Soils Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Romania, 59 Mărăști Boulevard, 1st District, 011464 Bucharest, Romania
Lucian Dinca: National Institute for Research and Development in Forestry “Marin Dracea”, Eroilor 128, 077190 Voluntari, Romania
Cristinel Constandache: National Institute for Research and Development in Forestry “Marin Dracea”, Eroilor 128, 077190 Voluntari, Romania
Gabriel Murariu: Department of Chemistry, Physics and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Environmental, Dunărea de Jos University Galati, Românească Street No. 47, 800008 Galati, Romania

Agriculture, 2025, vol. 15, issue 11, 1-30

Abstract: Forest shelterbelts and windbreaks play a vital role in protecting ecosystems, mitigating climate change effects, and enhancing agricultural productivity. These vegetative barriers serve as effective tools for soil conservation, reducing wind and water erosion while improving soil fertility. Additionally, they contribute to biodiversity preservation by providing habitat corridors for various plant and animal species. Their role in microclimate regulation, such as temperature moderation and increased humidity retention, further enhances agricultural yields and ecosystem stability. This study examines the historical evolution, design principles, and contemporary applications of forest shelterbelts and windbreaks, drawing insights from scientific research and case studies worldwide. It highlights the economic and environmental benefits, including improved air quality, carbon sequestration, and water management, making them crucial components of sustainable land use strategies. However, challenges such as land use competition, maintenance costs, and policy constraints are also analyzed, underscoring the need for integrated approaches to their management. Through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the existing literature and field studies, this paper emphasizes the necessity of strategic planning, community involvement, and adaptive policies to ensure the long-term sustainability of forest shelterbelts and windbreaks. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of their role in combating environmental degradation and promoting ecological resilience in the face of ongoing climate challenges.

Keywords: biodiversity conservation; carbon sequestration; ecosystem services; shelterbelts; soil stabilization; windbreaks (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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