Mitigation strategies for greenhouse gases to ensure food security

Abstract

Global warming and food insecurity are global concerns, with agriculture being a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane, from agricultural activities significantly impact climate change. Approximately 24% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture. Nitrous oxide is 300 times stronger than carbon dioxide and is mainly produced from organic manure and fertilizers. Methane, another potent greenhouse gas, is released during fermentation, manure management, and burning of residues. Carbon dioxide, a major contributor to climate change, is emitted through farming practices, fertilizers, pesticides, and deforestation. Climate change affects food security by directly impacting crop production and indirectly affecting food availability, cost, and supply chains. Hunger rates have been increasing globally, emphasizing the need to control global warming to reduce food insecurity. This review highlights various mitigation strategies for controlling greenhouse gases from agriculture with improved crop productivity. Soil characterization techniques, such as X-ray computed tomography, tracer and chamber-based methods, help to understand the soil composition for greenhouse gas mitigation strategies. Soil amendments, like biochar application can effectively reduce emissions by modifying microbial activity and biogeochemical processes. Controlled irrigation practices, minimum and zero tillage, and efficient nitrogen fertilizer usage also contribute to greenhouse gas mitigation and improves crop productivity. Strategies such as slow release of fertilizers and the use of inhibitors help to increase nitrogen usage efficiency and reduce nitrous oxide emissions. Implementing these strategies globally is crucial for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, reducing global warming, and ensuring food security.