Carbon-neutral agriculture is vital for achieving Netzero targets

Agricultural sector contributes about 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). It is one of the major contributors to GHG emissions. But the sector can be put on the climate-friendly path by adopting sustainable practices and innovative technologies. The sector can play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

In the energy transition scenario, the EU targets to cut 55% of emissions by 2030, while the US has committed to cutting 50% of the GHG emissions by the same period. But both of these targets cannot be achieved without reductions in the emissions from agriculture.

Carbon-neutral agriculture

Carbon-neutral agriculture refers to agricultural practices that do not release more carbon into the atmosphere than they absorb.

In order to achieve carbon neutrality in agriculture, farmers can adopt practices such as precision agriculture, reduced tillage, cover cropping, organic crop management, agro-forestry, and crop rotations that promote soil health and increase carbon sequestration.

Carbon-neutral agriculture may also involve the use of renewable energy sources to power farm operations and the implementation of carbon offset programs that support reforestation and other activities, which remove carbon from the atmosphere by storing it in the soil and vegetation.

Carbon-neutral agriculture is vital for climate change

Overall, carbon-neutral agriculture is an important component of efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting sustainable farming practices that minimize carbon emissions and maximize carbon sequestration, farmers can help reduce their impact on the environment. This will also improve the health and productivity of their land.

Livestock management techniques that reduce emissions such as improved feed quality and management of manure can also be employed.

If a farm has a large number of cattle or sheep, it is likely that methane is the largest source of GHG emissions. If a farm produces horticultural products, the main emissions are likely to be mainly nitrous oxides.