Journal of Energy Bioscience 2025, Vol.16, No.2, 85-93 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/jeb 86 2 Current Status of Agricultural Carbon Emissions 2.1 Main sources of carbon emissions in traditional agriculture Most of the carbon emissions from agricultural activities come from fertilizers, pesticides and a large number of machines and equipment. Among them, nitrogen fertilizers release nitrous oxide during use, which is a very destructive greenhouse gas. When carrying out irrigation and mechanical farming, a large amount of fossil fuels are often consumed, making carbon emissions more serious (Sauerbeck, 2001). Another problem with traditional agriculture is that agricultural waste (such as crop residues and livestock manure) is not properly handled. The methane produced by the decomposition of these organic wastes in an oxygen-deficient environment is also a very powerful greenhouse gas that will accelerate global warming (Hillier et al., 2009). 2.2 The potential technologies to reduce carbon emissions The emerging precision agriculture is expected to become a new agricultural method for reducing emissions. Precision agriculture uses GPS equipment and data technology to make farming more precise and scientific, thereby reducing waste and not abusing resources (Johnson et al., 2007). Organic agriculture is another feasible measure. This technology focuses on soil protection and does not use chemical fertilizers, which is also very helpful in reducing carbon emissions (Lal, 2007). In addition to the above two agricultural methods, renewable energy such as solar energy or biogas can also be used to replace traditional fuels, which can not only reduce carbon emissions, but also improve the economic stability of the agricultural system (Ball and Pretty, 2002). 2.3 Reducing environmental impacts by optimizing production processes Improving farming methods and protecting the soil is an important step in reducing environmental impact. Using conservation tillage and crop rotation can allow the soil to store more carbon and is less likely to degrade (Paustian et al., 1998). It can also reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, making the land more sustainable and productive. In the processing and transportation stages, energy-saving equipment can also be used, the supply chain can be shortened, and efficiency can be improved, thereby further reducing emissions. Using "life cycle assessment" to evaluate the entire agricultural process can help us pay attention to environmental protection at every link and promote sustainable agricultural development (Lal, 2004). 3 Green Cultivation Technologies 3.1 Definition and practices of organic farming and agroecology Organic agriculture mainly uses natural methods to cultivate land, without using chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms. This can make the soil healthier, protect biodiversity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Research conducted by Skinner et al. (2019) found that organic agriculture emits about 40.2% less nitrous oxide than traditional agriculture. This is because the organic carbon in the soil has increased and the activity of microorganisms has become more active. Agroecology is based on organic agriculture and adds ecological and social considerations. For example, planting multiple crops together and combining agriculture and forestry can better fix carbon, enhance adaptability to climate change, and improve biodiversity and soil fertility, which is very important for the development of sustainable agriculture (Lorenz and Lal, 2016). 3.2 The role of precision agriculture and soil and water conservation technologies in reducing carbon emissions Precision agriculture uses GPS, sensors and various data tools. These technologies can help farmers use fertilizers and water more reasonably, reduce waste, and reduce emissions. Excessive use of fertilizers will emit more nitrous oxide, which can be reduced with the use of precision technology. Squalli and Adamkiewicz (2018) also pointed out that precision agriculture improves the efficiency of resource use and can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture. In addition to precision agriculture, no-till farming and water-saving irrigation also play a big role. Conservation tillage does not disturb the soil much, which can keep carbon in the soil and reduce emissions. Lal (2011) found that these practices not only increase carbon storage, but also improve the overall quality of the soil, which is an important way to cope with climate change.
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