In today’s global era, agriculture faces significant challenges due to the increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which threaten water resources, soil quality, and plant growth environments. To address this, the adoption of Low Emission Development (LED) in agriculture has become crucial in reducing GHG emissions, ensuring a healthy farming system, and promoting economic, social, and environmental improvements in crop and livestock production while contributing to climate change mitigation.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Irham, M.Sc., a Professor of Agricultural Economics at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), discussed “Low Emission Development (LED) for Sustainable Agriculture” at the 2nd International Conference on Sustainable Agricultural Socioeconomics, Agribusiness, and Rural Development (ICSASARD) 2024. The event, held on 17 October 2024, at Alana Hotel Yogyakarta, focused on sustainable agriculture, resilient food systems, and inclusive rural development.
During his presentation, Prof. Irham emphasized that agricultural production and food systems are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the agriculture sector is directly responsible for 8.5% of total GHG emissions, while an additional 14.5% comes from land-use changes, food production, and methane emissions from livestock.
“Agriculture contributes to carbon emissions in various ways, including land burning, wetland drainage, chemical usage, and livestock grazing, which produces methane. The use of fossil fuels in production processes also plays a role. Additionally, deforestation, land-use changes, livestock production, fertilization, and waste management further increase emissions,” explained Prof. Irham.
With the growing issue of GHG emissions, Low Carbon Footprint Agriculture has emerged as a sustainable approach to food production aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of farming activities. This approach includes organic farming, integrated pest management, aquaponics, and hydroponics.
Furthermore, conservation farming, climate-resilient crop varieties, and sustainable livestock feeding strategies are essential in reducing the agricultural carbon footprint. The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in agriculture also plays a vital role in making farming eco-friendlier and more efficient.
“Investing in sustainable farming practices is not just about growing a business but also about creating a healthier future. One of the key factors for agriculture to thrive and remain sustainable is ensuring the regeneration of family farmers. Therefore, we must take concrete steps to encourage youth participation in agriculture and motivate them to actively contribute to rural development,” stated Prof. Irham.
The implementation of LED in agriculture is not only essential for food security and poverty reduction but also supports ecosystem conservation. By encouraging environmentally friendly farming practices, LED contributes to better water management and promotes sustainable policies aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 15: Life on Land
Author: Agrit Kirana Bunda
Editor: Desi Utami