Triticeae Genomics and Genetics, 2025, Vol.16, No.2, 92-100 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/tgg 97 7 Environmental and Sustainability Considerations 7.1 Minimizing nitrogen losses and environmental pollution Excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer can cause environmental pollution. It will increase greenhouse gas emissions and also allow nitrates to enter groundwater. Research has found that applying only the nitrogen fertilizer that crops truly need can not only maintain yields but also significantly reduce the costs of nitrogen loss and environmental damage (Cui et al., 2010; Bernas et al., 2023). Compared with traditional methods, applying fertilizers in stages or seasonally based on soil test results can better reduce the loss of excessive nitrates and nitrogen in the soil (Zhang et al., 2019). Generally speaking, using 100 to 150 kilograms of nitrogen fertilizer per hectare has the least impact on the environment. Too much or too little nitrogen fertilizer will increase emissions and pollution. The research also found that the combined management of water and fertilizer could reduce ammonia volatilization by 72% and nitrous oxide emissions by 57% (Huang et al., 2024). 7.2 Sowing density and weed suppression potential Increasing the sowing density can make crops grow faster and the ground cover up more quickly. In this way, the weeds won't get sunlight and their growth will slow down, so less herbicides can be used. This can not only save money, but also slow down the development of weed resistance and protect the ecological environment of farmland. Close planting can also make the soil structure more stable, reduce soil erosion, and promote the sustainable development of agriculture from the side. 7.3 Sustainable intensification for smallholder systems Some methods, although seemingly simple, are really useful for small-scale farmers. For instance, the sowing time can be slightly advanced or delayed. Scatter more seeds; Apply the nitrogen fertilizer in several portions. Be careful not to water too much when watering. These practices are not difficult to learn and do not require any high technology. Farmers can easily get started. There are many benefits to doing so. Not only can it make crops grow better, but also increase the yield and improve the utilization rate of nitrogen fertilizer. Moreover, the income and expenditure of nitrogen will also become more balanced. The most crucial point is that this can save unnecessary money, reduce costs, and also significantly reduce the pressure on the environment (Zhang et al., 2019; Huang et al., 2024). These simple yet practical methods are also in line with the Sustainable Development Goals advocated by the United Nations. Especially in some small farms with relatively scarce resources, this approach is more suitable for promotion (Fu et al., 2023; Du et al., 2024). From the practical results in some places, it can be seen that after adopting these comprehensive management methods, not only has the grain output increased, but the utilization of water and fertilizers has also become more efficient. Because it is used more accurately, the emissions of greenhouse gases have also decreased significantly. In this way, farmers can not only make money but also protect the environment well, taking care of both the economy and the ecology (Xu et al., 2023). 8 Concluding Remarks Research has generally found that moderate or high sowing density, combined with an appropriate amount of nitrogen fertilizer (usually less than traditional methods), can significantly increase grain yield, nitrogen fertilizer utilization efficiency and economic income. At the same time, it can also reduce harm to the environment. Dividing fertilization into several sessions, choosing the right time, and combining irrigation and fertilization can also help improve the stability of yields and the efficiency of resource utilization. High-yield planting systems often benefit from more ears and a neater population structure. However, if the density or the amount of nitrogen fertilizer used is too high, it may lead to a decline in the quality of the grains or make them more prone to lodging. Reasonable arrangement of planting density and application of nitrogen fertilizer can not only increase yield but also make the use of nitrogen fertilizer more effective. If well combined, it can also reduce excessive nitrogen, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize nutrient loss. This approach is particularly useful for small-scale farmers or areas with limited resources. It can ensure output while narrowing the gap between high and low yields, and also protect the environment. The rational combination of water and nitrogen, coupled with the improvement of soil conditions, is also crucial for the long-term development of agriculture. These practices are also helpful in addressing climate change.
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