State Key Laboratory Reports Findings in Science (Diversifying crop rotation increases food production, reduces net greenhouse gas emissions and improves soil health).

A recent study conducted in the North China Plain has found that diversifying crop rotation can increase food production, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve soil health. The study, funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Hebei Province Key Research and Development Program, demonstrated the benefits of incorporating cash crops and legumes into traditional cereal monoculture. The researchers found that diversified rotations increased yield by up to 38%, reduced NO emissions by 39%, and improved the system's greenhouse gas balance by 88%. Additionally, including legumes in crop rotations stimulated soil microbial activities, increased soil organic carbon stocks by 8%, and enhanced soil health. The adoption of diversified cropping systems in the North China Plain could potentially increase cereal production by 32% and farmer income by 20% while benefiting the environment. The study highlights the significance of crop diversification for long-term agricultural resilience and soil health. [Extracted from the article]