By Blake Jackson
A new study published in Nature Climate Change shows that while regenerative farming practices can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they may also reduce crop yields. The findings aim to guide better decision-making to balance climate action with food production.
Researchers analyzed practices like cover cropping, no-tillage, and crop residue management through the year 2100. Grass cover crops and no-tillage provided strong climate benefits—cutting emissions by 900 million tons of CO₂ annually—but also reduced yields by 140 million tons per year through 2050.
However, legume cover crops with no-tillage had better yield results, though lower climate benefits. The study found that combining practices and applying them based on local soil and climate conditions helped balance outcomes.
“Our work shows that these win-win outcomes are less common than expected and that important regional tradeoffs exist,” said lead researcher Shelby McClelland.
Using machine learning and spatial modeling, the team identified strategies best suited to clay-rich soils and low-nitrogen environments. Latin America and developed countries showed the highest potential for achieving both goals.
Despite its limits, regenerative farming offers many co-benefits like reduced fertilizer use and erosion control. The study emphasizes that it should be part of broader solutions, including dietary shifts and ecosystem restoration, to tackle climate change effectively.
The research was supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the U.S. Forest Service, Environmental Protection Agency, and organizations including the Environmental Defense Fund and the Nature Conservancy.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: New York, Crops