Advances in Crop Science and Technology
Open Access

Carbon sequestration; Climate mitigation; Sustainable agriculture; Soil carbon; Root biomass; Photosynthesis; Greenhouse gases; Regenerative farming; Biochar; Crop breeding; Carbon farming; Soil health; Net-zero agriculture; Cover crops; Deep-rooted crops; Plant-microbe interactions; Agroecology; CO₂ drawdown; Climate-smart crops; Agricultural carbon sinks

Introduction

As the planet confronts the escalating impacts of climate change, reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels has become a global priority [1]. Agriculture, while a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, also holds untapped potential as a part of the solution [2]. Through the process of photosynthesis, crops absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere and convert it into biomass. A portion of this carbon is transferred to the soil through roots and plant residues, where it can be stored for years or even decades. This process, known as carbon sequestration, can help reduce net greenhouse gas emissions when optimized [3]. While traditional climate mitigation strategies have focused on energy, transportation, and industry, the idea of engineering and managing crops specifically to sequester more carbon is gaining momentum. Carbon-sequestering crops offer a new frontier in climate mitigation by turning farmlands into active carbon sinks, supporting soil health, improving productivity, and contributing to global climate goals [3].

Description

Carbon sequestration in crops occurs primarily in two ways: through the accumulation of organic matter in plant biomass and the deposition of stable carbon compounds into the soil [4]. During photosynthesis, plants convert CO₂ into carbohydrates that are used to build leaves, stems, and most importantly, roots. Some plants allocate a larger proportion of their biomass below ground, where root exudates and decaying root matter contribute to soil organic carbon (SOC). This carbon can become stabilized through interactions with soil minerals or be stored as microbial biomass. Over time, the carbon-rich soil improves in structure, fertility, and water-holding capacity [5].

Crops with traits such as deep root systems, high biomass productivity, and the ability to interact with soil microbes (e.g., mycorrhizal fungi) tend to sequester more carbon. Perennial crops, cover crops, and bioenergy crops like switchgrass, miscanthus, and legumes are increasingly being studied for their carbon capture capabilities. Advanced breeding techniques and genetic engineering are being explored to enhance these carbon-sequestering traits in staple crops like wheat, maize, rice, and soy. Additionally, agricultural practices such as reduced tillage, composting, and the application of biochar (a form of stable carbon) can further boost carbon retention in soils. Innovations in remote sensing and soil carbon measurement are helping researchers and farmers monitor carbon dynamics more accurately than ever before [6].

Discussion

The development and deployment of carbon-sequestering crops could significantly reshape the agricultural landscape in the context of climate change. By selecting or engineering crops that channel more carbon into the soil, farmers can actively participate in climate mitigation while reaping agronomic benefits. These include improved soil fertility, enhanced drought resilience, better nutrient cycling, and reduced dependence on synthetic inputs. Integrating such crops into regenerative farming systems amplifies their benefits by coupling them with practices that minimize soil disturbance and promote biodiversity [7].

Several global initiatives and research programs are currently investigating the scalability of carbon-sequestering crops. Projects like the Soil Carbon Initiative, Harnessing Plants Initiative by the Salk Institute, and 4 per 1000 Initiative under the UNFCCC highlight the increasing international focus on soil carbon as a climate lever. Biotechnological interventions aim to modify root architecture, increase suberin content in roots, or enhance associations with beneficial microbes to maximize below-ground carbon deposits. The potential of synthetic biology to program plants for increased carbon capture is also being explored [8].

Nevertheless, realizing the full potential of carbon-sequestering crops comes with several challenges. The measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) of soil carbon remains complex, often varying with soil type, climate, and land use history. There is also the risk of carbon being re-released into the atmosphere due to soil disturbance, erosion, or land-use change, which can undermine sequestration efforts. Moreover, breeding for carbon traits must be balanced with yield, pest resistance, and climate adaptability to ensure that carbon-sequestering crops remain productive and profitable for farmers [9].

Another issue lies in the economic incentives and policy frameworks. For carbon-sequestering crops to be adopted widely, farmers need clear benefits and support mechanisms, such as carbon credits, payment for ecosystem services, or certified sustainable product labeling. Public awareness, extension services, and market development play crucial roles in ensuring that smallholder farmers and larger agribusinesses alike are motivated to engage in carbon farming practices. It is equally important to develop region-specific solutions since crop performance and soil carbon dynamics vary greatly across different agro-ecological zones [10].

Conclusion

Carbon-sequestering crops represent a bold and innovative pathway for addressing the twin challenges of climate change and agricultural sustainability. By leveraging the natural carbon capture ability of plants and enhancing it through science and management, agriculture can transform from a net emitter to a net sink of carbon. This transformation requires a coordinated effort involving plant breeders, soil scientists, agronomists, policymakers, and farmers. While technical and policy hurdles exist, the momentum behind carbon farming is growing, and with continued research, investment, and public-private partnerships, it can become a cornerstone of global climate mitigation strategies. Future food systems must not only feed the world but also heal the planet. Carbon-sequestering crops offer a tangible and scalable solution to do both—by embedding climate action deep within the soil, root by root, season by season.

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