New Study Guides Low-Emission Maize Farming Worldwide

A recent study led by the Institute of Atmospheric Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences outlines a comprehensive approach for low-emission maize farming. Released on September 8, 2025, this research provides farmers and policymakers with actionable insights aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture while ensuring high crop yields.

Published in the journal Advances in Atmospheric Sciences, the study employs an advanced computer model, known as CNMM-DNDC, to assess the complete carbon footprint associated with maize production across three distinct climates: temperate regions in China, subtropical regions in China, and tropical areas in Kenya. This carbon footprint encompasses all greenhouse gas emissions produced from fertilizer production to the harvest of maize.

Dr. Siqi Li, the lead author of the study, emphasized the necessity of finding methods that both sustain global food requirements and protect the environment. She stated, “By integrating a ‘cradle-to-gate’ tracking method into our model, we can now precisely quantify the greenhouse gas emissions from farm and supply chain activities per bushel of corn. This gives us a powerful tool to identify the most effective mitigation strategies.”

The investigation revealed that a farm’s carbon footprint is significantly influenced by its local climate and soil characteristics. Notably, subtropical areas, such as Yanting, China, exhibited the lowest carbon emissions. This was attributed to effective soil carbon storage and reduced emissions from fertilizer production.

In contrast, temperate regions, like Yongji, China, displayed a moderate carbon footprint due to substantial soil carbon storage that partially offset higher emissions linked to the fertilizer supply chain. Tropical regions, including Madeya, Kenya, faced more considerable challenges, recording the highest carbon footprint primarily due to soil carbon loss and lower crop yields. This indicates that each kilogram of maize harvested in these regions is more carbon-intensive.

Co-author Peter Bolo, from the International Center for Tropical Agriculture in Nairobi, highlighted the significance of the study for climate-smart agricultural practices, stating, “Our study, examining the shifts in greenhouse gas emissions under integrated soil fertility management in long-term maize trials, provides robust evidence for climate-smart intensification in Africa.”

The research extends beyond mere analysis, offering practical solutions to reduce emissions while maintaining crop productivity. One effective strategy identified is the combined use of synthetic and organic fertilizers, which lessens reliance on energy-intensive synthetic options and diminishes off-farm emissions.

Additionally, the practice of recycling crop waste by returning leftover stalks and leaves to the fields was highlighted for its potential to improve soil health. This method effectively transforms farmland into a natural carbon sink, capturing atmospheric carbon. The study found these benefits were particularly pronounced in tropical regions, where soils struggle to retain carbon.

This research lays a solid foundation for the global agricultural sector, encouraging the adoption of climate-smart farming techniques. By implementing these tailored strategies, farmers can enhance sustainability efforts, policymakers can establish informed incentives, and the agricultural industry can progress towards a more resilient food system.

For further details, refer to the study published by Dr. Siqi Li et al., titled “Greenhouse Gas Footprints of Maize Cultivation Systems in Different Climate Zones: Field Data Validation and Application of CNMM–DNDC as a Hydro-Biogeochemical Model” in Advances in Atmospheric Sciences.