Summary
This synthesis re-examines the blanket promotion of no-till practices in agroecological transitions, arguing that strategic tillage can fulfil important ecological functions in pesticide-free systems, particularly for weed management and cover crop integration. The authors synthesise evidence that tillage primarily redistributes rather than depletes soil organic carbon, and that N₂O emissions from no-till soils may offset carbon sequestration benefits. They propose an integrated, systems-based approach that evaluates tillage within the broader context of carbon inputs, ecological functions, and whole-farm greenhouse gas balances to design resilient, low-input farming systems.
UK applicability
Findings are directly relevant to UK agroecological farming transitions, particularly where organic and low-input systems seek to reduce pesticide reliance while meeting climate targets. The emphasis on systems-level carbon accounting and strategic tool-use rather than dogmatic no-till adoption aligns with emerging UK policy frameworks for sustainable intensification and net-zero agriculture.
Key measures
Soil organic carbon (SOC) distribution and stock; nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions; carbon inputs; greenhouse gas balances; weed and pest control efficacy; cover crop management outcomes
Outcomes reported
The synthesis evaluated soil organic carbon dynamics and greenhouse gas emissions under contrasting tillage regimes in pesticide-free systems. Key outcomes include evidence that tillage affects soil carbon distribution in the profile rather than total stock, and that nitrous oxide emissions under no-till practices may offset potential carbon sequestration gains.
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