Summary
This 2011 review synthesises evidence on the dual role of legume crops in addressing climate change mitigation and renewable energy production. Legumes reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing dependence on synthetic nitrogen fertilisers and may provide sustainable feedstock for biofuels and biorefineries. The review suggests that legume-inclusive farming systems offer a pathway to align climate goals with bioenergy demand, though the trade-offs between food security, land use and energy production require careful consideration.
Regional applicability
Findings are internationally applicable, including to United Kingdom farming systems. UK temperate arable and mixed farms could incorporate legumes (peas, beans, clover) to reduce nitrogen fertiliser inputs and associated emissions; however, UK biofuel policy and feedstock economics differ from global contexts, and applicability depends on local soil conditions, crop rotations and market structures for both food and energy outputs.
Key measures
Greenhouse gas emissions reductions, nitrogen fixation capacity, biofuel and biorefinery feedstock potential, agronomic performance of legume systems
Outcomes reported
The review examined the potential of legume crops to contribute to climate change mitigation through reduced nitrogen fertiliser requirements and carbon sequestration, whilst simultaneously serving as feedstock for biofuel and biorefinery production.
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