Carbon Footprint in Agriculture: Towards a Reduced Impact

Agriculture’s Role in Sustainability: Reducing Its Carbon Footprint

Agriculture is a fundamental pillar of our civilization, nourishing populations and shaping landscapes. However, when poorly managed, it can be a major source of environmental degradation. Its impact on the carbon balance cannot be ignored. Currently, it is responsible for one-fifth to one-fourth of national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in France.

In light of today’s environmental challenges, how can agriculture reduce its carbon footprint?

Causes of Agriculture’s Carbon Footprint

Agriculture significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. The distribution of emissions comes from various sources:

• Livestock farming: 48%
• Crops: 41%
• Agricultural machinery: 11%

Livestock farming, particularly enteric fermentation in ruminants and manure management, is the primary contributor. Crops mainly generate emissions through the use of nitrogen fertilizers and anaerobic decomposition in cultivated soils.

Some traditional agricultural methods, such as intensive plowing and excessive fertilizer use, also have a high environmental cost. These techniques increase CO₂ release into the atmosphere.

Beyond GHG emissions, agriculture has other environmental impacts. These emissions directly affect the environment, influencing water quality, air quality, biodiversity, and soil structure.

Measuring and Tracking Emissions: The Role of Carbon Accounting

In 2004, in response to growing concerns, ADEME developed the "Carbon Footprint" tool. This instrument measures GHG emissions from various activities, including agriculture. It marks a significant step toward collective awareness and the implementation of concrete actions to reduce the agricultural sector’s carbon footprint.

Solutions to Reduce Agriculture’s Carbon Footprint in France

Given the urgency, a radical shift is necessary by 2050. The vision of the Sommet de l’Élevage is to promote agriculture that respects both the environment and all living beings within it.

Agroecology, an approach centered on resilience and sustainability, is increasingly being recognized as the farming model of the future. It not only focuses on production but also ensures ecosystem protection through various strategies.

Cover Crops: Protecting and Enriching the Soil

Cover crops, planted between two main crops, protect the soil from erosion, improve its structure, and store carbon. Since 1991, Europe has acknowledged the importance of soil protection by recommending the use of cover crops. Legumes play a crucial role, as they fix nitrogen, enriching both the soil and livestock feed.

Agroforestry: Combining Trees and Crops

Agroforestry, which integrates trees and crops on the same plot, is a promising method. It enables carbon storage while providing agricultural products.

Methanization: Turning a Problem into a Solution

Methanization, which converts organic waste into energy, can reduce methane emissions while supplying renewable energy.

Eco-Responsible Water Management

Water is a precious resource. Responsible water management involves both optimized usage and agricultural practices that prevent groundwater pollution.

Organic Farming: A Viable Solution?

Organic farming, which excludes chemical products, can help reduce the carbon footprint. It also promotes biodiversity and soil health.

Reducing Food Waste: A Direct Impact on the Carbon Footprint

Nearly one-third of all food produced is wasted. Reducing this waste could have a significant impact on agriculture’s carbon footprint.