The influence of agriculture on the climate

The influence of agriculture on the climate

The modern effects of agriculture on the environment are diverse and consequently. The sector is a relevant source for the emissions of greenhouse gases (THG), and its practices contribute significantly to global warming. A significant part of the world's population is fed by agricultural areas and the pressure on these systems increases with the growing population and the growing desire for a protein -rich diet.

The plant -based part of agriculture and the climate

greenhouse gas emissions

Plant -based agricultural systems are an important source for the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and stabile monoxide (N2O), all of which contribute significantly to global warming. CO2 is primarily released by the combustion of fossil fuels to improve soil quality and to increase agricultural production. Methan and N2O are mainly generated by the tillage and use of fertilizers.

ground degradation and erosion

The agricultural practice of soil processing contributes to ground degradation and the deterioration of the soil quality, which can have a negative impact on the climate. The soil is broken open during soil processing, which leads to the release of CO2 into the atmosphere. In addition, soil processing contributes to soil erosion, which reduces the organic material content in the soil and affects soil fruit.

Design

Development for agricultural purposes is another important factor that contributes to global warming. Forests act as carbon stores by absorbing large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere. When they are cleared or burned, the stored CO2 is released and contributes to increasing the atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

The animal husbandry area of ​​agriculture and the climate

greenhouse gas emissions

Animal husbandry is one of the largest sources for greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector. In addition to CO2, methane and laughing gas are the main emissions from animal husbandry. Methane, a particularly strong greenhouse gas, is created primarily in the digestion of ruminants such as cows or sheep and is released in the form of rülpsen in the atmosphere. Lachgas are mainly created by using fertilizers in feed production.

area consumption and loss of species

In addition, animal husbandry is also criticized due to the high level of space, which reduces or destroy habitats for wild animals. This leads to a loss of biodiversity, which is negative for the climate, since biodiversity helps to keep the climate stable by supporting ecosystem services such as carbon storage and pest control.

approaches and final thoughts

Sustainable agricultural practices

In order to minimize the negative effects of agriculture on the climate, innovative and sustainable solutions are required. Some of these solutions include the use of techniques such as direct sowing, which does not disturb the soil, the use of organic fertilizers instead of synthetic and the implementation of agrofors systems that combine plant and animal production with tree plantings.

Reduction of meat consumption

Furthermore, a change in our nutritional style is seen as an important step to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of agriculture. A stronger emphasis on plant -based nutrition and a reduction in meat consumption could significantly help to reduce the pressure on agriculture and thus contribute to a more sustainable and climate -friendly agriculture.

agriculture is a crucial sector when it comes to fighting climate change. Despite its significant role in global warming, there are many ways of how agriculture can contribute to solving this global challenge. Through sustainable practices and long -term approaches, we can minimize the negative effects of agriculture and at the same time ensure the productivity and profitability of agricultural businesses. Because it is clear: we need agriculture. It feeds us and other living things, it offers living space, it shapes large parts of our cultural landscape. It is therefore time to critically question the paths as we do agricultural economy and bravely think again.