Are decision support tools oriented toward improving on-farm sustainability? A systematic review

Decelerating climate change requires a shift away from conventional production practices across industries, including agriculture, to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Agricultural sustainability has therefore gained growing interest, and growing evidence suggests that frameworks and computer-based decision-making support, known as Decision Support Tools (DSTs), can enhance sustainability. This study analyses the functionalities and methodologies of DSTs designed to assess sustainability at the farm level. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA methodology to identify (1) key characteristics of operational DSTs, (2) SDG-related areas requiring enhanced decision-making support, and (3) the extent to which DST implementation improves sustainability. Results indicate that while DST applications frequently present expected outputs, recommendations, improved management scenarios, or identify vulnerable areas, there is a notable lack of studies evaluating how these tools translate information into practical, long-term actions for sustainable development at the farm scale. The TOMCAST model was the only DST reporting direct evidence of efficacy through reduced disease incidence and yield losses. Most reviewed DSTs target resource-use optimisation (SDG 12), whereas tools assessing biodiversity (SDG 15) and social impacts remain scarce. By identifying methodological gaps and underrepresented sustainability dimensions, this review provides both a diagnosis of current limitations and a roadmap for developing more implementation-oriented, SDG-aligned tools. Future research should adopt participatory approaches and assess the short- and long-term impacts, accessibility, operability, and costs associated with DST implementation and maintenance, while expanding the integration of Agriculture 4.0 and 5.0 technologies beyond remote sensing.