Agronomic Interactions with CO₂ Sequestration

Definition of the Subject

Atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) can be stabilized, if not reduced, by reducing anthropogenic emissions, sequestering emissions, or both. Emission reduction implies identifying and using no-carbon (C) or low-C energy sources such as alternatives to fossil fuel including wind, solar, hydro, geo-thermal, biofuels, etc. Reductions in gaseous emissions can also be achieved by enhancing the energy use efficiency. In agronomic systems, involving practices to raise crops and livestock, enhancing energy efficiency implies a range of practices which increase agricultural productivity per unit input of energy-based resources (i.e., fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation). Another strategy is elimination or reduction in frequency and intensity of tillage operations and converting plow-based tillage to no-till farming or conservation agriculture. Use of solar...