Circular Mechanisms, Green Outcomes: An Indicator Framework for
Genotype × Environment × Management (G×E×M) in Fruit Crops

Ailin Moloșag, Mihaela Olaru, Alexandra Maria Bardoș Marțiș, Mihaela-Cecilia
Dogaru, Maria-Marinela Dragnea, Vlăduț Loredan Holt

Research and Development Station for Fruit Tree Growing Băneasa

Keywords: nutrient circularity, resource efficiency, meta-analysis, cross-crop scalability, decision support.

Abstract: This review advances an indicator framework for assessing Genotype × Environment × Management (G×E×M) interactions in fruit crops under residue valorisation, nutrient and water recirculation, and bio-based inputs, with the aim of delivering sustainability outcomes. Evidence synthesized from contrasting environments and management regimes shows cultivar-dependent responses that influence yield, fruit quality, and resource use efficiencies. Practices are linked to outcomes through a minimal, comparable set of metrics: fertilizer substitution rate, partial nitrogen and phosphorus balances, and indices of nutrient circularity to reflect closing nutrient cycles, together with water-use efficiency, nitrogen-use efficiency, and, where applicable, energy intensity to describe system performance. Statistical guidance emphasizes factorial designs and mixed models with explicit G×E×M terms, complemented by standardized reporting to enable meta-analysis across cultivars, seasons, and sites. The framework is scalable across crop types, including major field crops, vegetables, and industrial species, enabling application beyond fruit systems and supporting optimization of cultivar, input, and environment combinations under climate variability.