Cotton Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.4, 173-183 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/cgg 173 Research Insight Open Access Study on Carbon Reduction Planting Strategy of Cotton Based on Genomic Information Xiaojing Yang, Huijuan Xu, Xiaoyan Chen Modern Agriculture Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: xiaoyan.chen@cuixi.org Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol.16, No.4 doi: 10.5376/cgg.2025.16.0017 Received: 12 May, 2025 Accepted: 23 Jun., 2025 Published: 15 Jul., 2025 Copyright © 2025 Yang et al., This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Yang X.J., Xu H.J., and Chen X.Y., 2025, Study on carbon reduction planting strategy of cotton based on genomic information, Cotton Genomics and Genetics, 16(4): 173-183 (doi: 10.5376/cgg.2025.16.0017) Abstract Cotton production is a major contributor to agricultural greenhouse gas emissions due to high input requirements and land-use intensity. In response, genomic technologies have emerged as transformative tools for developing sustainable, low-carbon cotton farming systems. This review systematically explores the carbon footprint of conventional cotton cultivation and evaluates how genomic insights can be leveraged to mitigate emissions. We examine gene networks linked to carbon use efficiency, stress tolerance, and nutrient utilization, and discuss the application of marker-assisted selection, genomic prediction, and gene editing to breed low-carbon cultivars. Additionally, the integration of genomics with precision agronomic practices and root microbiome research is addressed for enhancing carbon sequestration. A life cycle assessment (LCA) framework is proposed to align genomic strategies with environmental impact metrics, and a regional case study from Xinjiang demonstrates measurable benefits of such an integrated approach. Ultimately, this review underscores the potential of genomic innovation to guide carbon-reduction planting strategies, paving the way for climate-resilient and environmentally responsible cotton production. Keywords Cotton genomics; Carbon footprint; Low-carbon breeding; Precision agriculture; Life cycle assessment 1 Introduction Cotton is not considered "high carbon" by everyone, but it is indeed a source of global carbon emissions that cannot be ignored, especially in the use of fertilizers and water. Many areas still stick to the old high-input routine of planting cotton, spreading more nitrogen fertilizers and irrigating more water. The yield has increased, but the cost is not small-both the environment and the cost are affected (Zhu and Luo, 2024). Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers is not just a matter of money. Soil degradation and greenhouse gas release are real consequences. But not all cotton varieties are the same. Different genotypes perform very differently in carbon and nitrogen utilization. Some varieties are naturally "saving materials", while others "eat more". This also makes us realize that it is unrealistic to manage all cotton fields with a unified standard. We have to find a way to optimize these metabolic pathways, otherwise it is not enough to just reduce fertilizers (Iqbal et al., 2020; Iqbal et al., 2022). In fact, in recent years, cotton genome research has made rapid progress. Compared with the past, it is not only possible to sequence, but also to "modify" it (Wang and Zhang, 2024). Through gene editing or functional analysis, researchers can now identify genes that are closely related to carbon and nitrogen metabolism and have ways to regulate them (Yang et al., 2022; Kun et al., 2025). Not only for high yield, but also for the hope that these improved cotton varieties can save resources and have fewer emissions. This study does not intend to talk about how to grow cotton from beginning to end, but hopes to sort out the current research results around a core issue-"how to grow and manage low-carbon cotton". The focus will be on several aspects: the genetic basis of carbon and nitrogen metabolism, the progress of breeding technology, and the actual planting strategies in the field. We also hope to provide some practical information and inspiration for those engaged in cotton breeding, management and policy research. 2 The Carbon Footprint of Cotton Production 2.1 Sources of greenhouse gas emissions across the cotton cultivation cycle During cotton production, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come mainly from several sources: fertilization, especially nitrogen fertilizer; electricity used during irrigation; and agricultural film used. These links have a
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==