Mitigation measures for GHG emissions from paddy soils in South Asia

Abstract

Agricultural soils act as a major sink and source of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). In South Asia, paddy fields have long been a source of concern for scientists, as they produce long-lasting GHGs, primarily CH₄ and N₂O. Changing conventional crop management practices to good agricultural practices with appropriate resource conservation technologies could have a big influence on lowering GHG emissions from paddy fields. Thus, understanding the mechanisms of CH₄ and N₂O production, and emissions from paddy soils, as well as the factors that limit emissions, are critical for developing mitigation measures to reduce GHG emissions. In this article, existing data were used to create a comprehensive analysis of appropriate rice crop management strategies for reducing GHG emissions. The GHG emissions can be reduced through the adoption of best management practices, precision farming, improved soil and agronomic practices, and resource conservation technologies.