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Project title

Climate Smart Management for Resilient European Cropping Systems

Primary Funding Agency

DAFM

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin

Lead Applicant

Not listed

Project Abstract

ClimateCropping aims to provide scientific evidence, mainly based on long term experiments (LTEs), on how management of agricultural soils can contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation, better cycling of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) nutrients and other associated co-benefits in European (EU) cropping systems and pedo-climatic conditions. Furthermore, the project will contribute to the parametrisation and evaluation of soil C decision support models. We will implement an interdisciplinary approach that includes: field observations, meta-analysis of historical data, carbon, N and P and life cycle assessment modelling, agro-economic assessment and stakeholder engagement to evaluate the contribution of alternative soil management practices (SMPs): 1) reduced tillage, 2) cover cropping, 3) organic fertilisation and 4) crop residue retention, to climate change mitigation and adaptation in cropping systems along a North-South climate gradient across Europe. Historical data will be complemented with measurements in LTEs in seven EU countries (Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Switzerland and UK). The focus will be on studying C sequestration potential, C balance, GHG mitigation, C footprint and effects on N and P cycling under above SMPs at local to regional scales. The soil assessment will be complemented with an assessment of economic and social sustainability including practical feasibility, and socio-cultural factors for social acceptance of a single or a combination of SMPs. The project will involve an international and interdisciplinary research team that will strive towards holistic understanding of the GHG mitigation impacts of selected SMPs, alone and in a combination, in main cropping systems across relevant climate regions and enable their uptake in EU agriculture. The objectives align well with the national priorities related to GHG mitigation in each partner country, the results will contribute to the achievement of the national and international climate goals and will be highly relevant for the climate change policies.

Grant Approved

�493,198.60

Research Hub

Climate Change

Research Theme

1. Carbon Stocks, GHG Emissions, Sinks and Management Options

Start Date

01/06/2023

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/05/2026