Advances in Agricultural GHG measurement and monitoring: implications for policy makers

Abstract

Agricultural landscapes support rural livelihoods, produce food, fiber and energy, and deliver a wide array of ecosystem services. Agricultural practices, including expansion into forest lands, are a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Yet, agriculture can also mitigate GHG emissions through the reduction of nitrous oxide and methane emissions, as well as through carbon sequestration, particularly in the developing world. Despite significant mitigation potential of a range of agricultural practices, limited awareness and low confidence in monitoring of agricultural interventions has inhibited inclusion of agriculture in climate change policy and emissions offset markets. Some examples include the UNFCCC process and domestic cap-and-trade legislation. Sub-national systems, such as the California Action Registry, offer further opportunities for gaining experience with agricultural GHG offsets