Summary
This global meta-analysis synthesises evidence from 193 studies to assess temporal yield stability—the reliability of production across years—in three major cropping systems. Whilst organic agriculture delivers environmental and biodiversity benefits, it exhibits 15% lower temporal stability per unit yield compared to conventional farming. The analysis further identifies green manure and enhanced fertilisation as management strategies capable of narrowing this stability deficit, and finds that conservation agriculture (no-tillage) does not significantly compromise yield stability relative to conventional tillage.
UK applicability
The findings are applicable to UK farming policy and practice, particularly given the UK's strategic interest in expanding organic production whilst maintaining food security. The identification of green manure and fertilisation strategies to stabilise organic yields offers practical pathways for UK farmers transitioning to or operating under organic standards.
Key measures
Temporal yield stability expressed as percentage difference relative to conventional agriculture; comparative analysis of organic agriculture (-15% stability), conservation agriculture / no-tillage (-3% stability); effectiveness of green manure and enhanced fertilisation in reducing stability gaps
Outcomes reported
The study quantified temporal yield stability (year-to-year variability) across organic agriculture, conservation agriculture (no-tillage), and conventional agriculture systems using data from 193 studies and 2896 comparisons. It measured the percentage difference in yield stability between systems and identified management practices that can reduce stability gaps.
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