In a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Environmental Research Letters*, researchers have quantified the energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with closing global crop yield gaps through irrigation and fertilizer management. The findings, led by Chenchen Ren of the Carnegie Institution for Science’s Biosphere Sciences and Engineering division, reveal significant implications for the energy sector and sustainable agriculture.
The study highlights that closing yield gaps—defined as the difference between actual and attainable crop yields—requires substantial energy inputs. Currently, irrigation pumping and fertilizer production consume 462 TWh and 1,884 TWh of energy annually, respectively. These activities contribute to 552 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions, with irrigation accounting for 154 million metric tons and fertilizer production for 398 million metric tons.
“Our findings indicate that closing the full yield gap would double annual energy consumption to 4,579 TWh and emissions to 1.1 gigatons of CO2 equivalent,” said Ren. “This is equivalent to 3% of global energy consumption and 2% of total GHG emissions in 2020.”
The study also reveals pronounced regional disparities. Countries like India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and several in Sub-Saharan Africa would face disproportionate energy and emission burdens, requiring over 15% of their national energy consumption and more than 5% of their total GHG emissions to achieve full yield gap closure.
For the energy sector, these findings underscore the need for locally tailored strategies to strengthen food system resilience while advancing low-carbon energy infrastructure. “Reducing fossil fuel dependence and enhancing energy security are critical steps in mitigating the environmental trade-offs of agricultural productivity,” Ren noted.
The research suggests that while closing 75% or 50% of the yield gap would reduce energy use and GHG emissions, significant challenges remain. The study calls for innovative solutions to balance agricultural productivity with energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
As the global population continues to grow, the demand for food will only increase, making these findings particularly relevant. The energy sector must adapt to meet these demands while minimizing environmental impact. The study published in *Environmental Research Letters* (translated as *Letters on Environmental Research*) provides a crucial roadmap for navigating these complex challenges.
This research is poised to shape future developments in sustainable agriculture and energy policy, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches that consider both productivity and environmental impact. As the world seeks to close yield gaps, the energy sector will play a pivotal role in ensuring that these efforts are both efficient and sustainable.