Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Agriculture: Mitigation Strategies
Abstract
Agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for a substantial portion of global emissions from methane, nitrous oxide, and carbon dioxide. This paper reviews the sources and impacts of GHG emissions from agricultural activities, including livestock production, soil management, and fertilizer application. It examines various mitigation strategies and technologies aimed at reducing agricultural emissions while enhancing productivity and resilience. These strategies include improved nutrient management, conservation tillage, agroforestry, and livestock waste management practices. The paper also discusses the role of policy instruments, incentives, and voluntary programs in promoting adoption of low-emission agricultural practices and incentivizing carbon sequestration in soils and vegetation. By implementing comprehensive mitigation measures, agriculture can play a vital role in mitigating climate change, safeguarding ecosystem services, and ensuring food security in a changing climate.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Smith, P., Martino, D., Cai, Z., Gwary, D., Janzen, H., Kumar, P., ... & Smith, J. (2008). Greenhouse gas mitigation in agriculture. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 363(1492), 789-813.
- Lal, R. (2018). Soil carbon sequestration impacts on global climate change and food security. Science, 304(5677), 1623-1627.
- Tubiello, F. N., Salvatore, M., Ferrara, A. F., House, J., Federici, S., Rossi, S., ... & Conchedda, G. (2015). The contribution of agriculture, forestry and other land use activities to global warming, 1990-2012. Global Change Biology, 21(7), 2655-2660.
- Reay, D. S., Davidson, E. A., Smith, K. A., Smith, P., Melillo, J. M., & Dentener, F. (2012). Global agriculture and nitrous oxide emissions. Nature Climate Change, 2(6), 410-416.
- West, T. O., & Marland, G. (2002). A synthesis of carbon sequestration, carbon emissions, and net carbon flux in agriculture: Comparing tillage practices in the United States. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 91(1-3), 217-232.