To till or not to till in a temperate ecosystem? Implications for climate change mitigation

Abstract The management of agricultural soils affect the composition and scale their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. There is conflicting evidence on effect zero-tillage carbon storage GHG Here we assess effects over a range time frames (1–15 years) release controls in UK Net global warming potential was 30% lower under systems, due to dioxide fluxes, with greatest impacts after longer periods management. Simultaneously, soil stocks proportion sequestered recalcitrant increased while temperature sensitivity respiration decreased time, compared conventionally soils. We conclude that could play crucial role both reducing emissions at same increase sequestration, therefore contributing mitigate against climate change. Our findings are particularly important context designing new policies (for example Environmental Land Management Schemes UK) ensure sustainability production changing climate.