Research trend and conceptualization of low-carbon agricultural systems for food security in Brazil and Africa: a systematic and bibliometric analysis

Brazilian research institutes have remarkable contributions in promoting food security in Africa through collaborative-knowledge transfer. However, there is lack of information on publications, research production and emerging trends on low-carbon agricultural systems (LoCAS) and food (in)security within and between Brazil and Africa. This work is aimed at mapping the research collaborations, thematic evolution, and publication trends on LoCAS and food security in Brazil and Africa by using a systematic and bibliometric analysis. This is the first time different bibliometric methods (such as VOSviewer, Flourish studio, Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny models in Rstudio) were simultaneously used to investigate the research impacts on LoCAS and food security in the regions. Data were extracted from the Web of Science databases by using the relevant search terms and strings. From the dataset, information relating to LoCAS was extracted and collated from the regions by identifying seven LoCAS and estimated the number of articles reflected on each. A qualified 687 articles, which had annual scientific growth rate of 13.1%, involving 2,839 authors who applied 2,519 keywords and had 10.2% international collaborations was observed. Brazil (22.4%), and South Africa (14.3%) had the highest number of publications. Number of LoCAS increased with corresponding authors countries’ research relevance. Thirty-six core benefits of LoCAS were identified. Authors’ scientific production showed, de Oliveira Silva and Pereira (Brazil), and Thierfelder (Zimbabwe) as the most impactful authors. Published studies reflecting on food (in)security increased by 75% while those for LoCAS increased by 67%. The hybrid bibliometric approach helped to close the knowledge gap on Brazil-African research trajectory on LoCAS and food security, and the roles of countries, authors, institutions, and publishing journals. This knowledge could support in making future agricultural policies to enhance food security, and climate change resilience, especially in Africa where there have been low research and publications on the topic.