ERAMMP Report-69: Feasibility of Increasing Cultivated Crops on Farms in Wales as a Greenhouse Gas Emission Mitigation Measure and for Delivery of Public Goods
Read the full reportThe report highlights the substantial greenhouse gas emissions resulting from converting grassland to arable land, which releases significant soil carbon stocks and nitrogen via N2O emissions. This conversion leads to a surge in emissions during the initial years, with arable expansion in Wales causing higher GHG emissions than importing cereals from established arable regions in England. While returning arable land to grassland can sequester some lost carbon, the rate is much lower than the initial loss. Additionally, arable farming increases GHG emissions from fertiliser production and application, exacerbating risks of water pollution and eutrophication.
The report highlights the significant GHG emissions associated with converting grassland to arable land, which includes the release of soil carbon stocks and nitrogen via N2O emissions.
Conversion from grassland to arable crops results in substantial soil carbon loss, with an initial surge of emissions in the first few years.
Expansion of arable cropland in Wales would lead to increased GHG emissions compared to importing cereals from established arable areas in England, even considering transportation emissions.
Returning arable to grassland by rotational management will sequester some of the lost carbon but at a lower rate than for the initial loss.
Apart from the loss of soil carbon, there are additional GHG emissions from practical arable operations particularly fertiliser manufacture and its application. Increased fertiliser and pesticide applications for arable crops also increase the risks of water pollution and eutrophication of semi-natural habitats.
Recommendations for policy implementation
- Welsh Government should implement a strong regulatory and advisory framework to manage the environmental risks of increased GHG emissions, biodiversity impacts, and water pollution from increased pesticide and fertiliser use.
- Consideration of crop rotations with grassland to reduce soil carbon losses and the promotion of sustainable land management practices to enhance soil health.
- Explore alternative strategies such as all-forage diets for dairy cattle, though this would require managing the trade-offs with milk yield and overall GHG emissions.