From Decoupling to Integration: Evaluating Climate Benefits of Crop–Livestock Recoupling in China’s Agricultural Sector"
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61978/sativa.v2i1.1435Keywords:
Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Recoupling, Crop–Livestock Integration, Life Cycle Assessment, Sustainable Agriculture, China, Nutrient RecyclingAbstract
Agricultural greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in China have risen significantly over the past decade, driven by the separation of crop and livestock systems and increased reliance on synthetic inputs. This study evaluates the potential for emission reduction through recoupled crop–livestock systems, using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) data from 2010 to 2019. By comparing baseline and integrated scenarios at the national level, we assess total emissions and identify mechanisms contributing to mitigation. The methodology follows ISO-standard LCA protocols, harmonizing secondary data sources and applying multi-level analytical frameworks. Results indicate that integrated systems reduced GHG emissions by 8.83%, largely due to improved manure nutrient recycling, localized feed sourcing, and enhanced land use efficiency. Integrated systems also demonstrated reduced emission intensity per unit output and improved carbon sequestration. Despite these promising results, socio-economic trade-offs including adoption barriers and labor transitions must be addressed through policy support, financial incentives, and training. The findings contribute to national climate strategies, affirming that recoupling is a viable pathway toward sustainable agriculture in China.
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