Cereal yield, yield stability, and nitrous oxide release in European conservation agriculture: A meta-analysis

This study synthesizes evidence across Europe to understand how conservation agriculture (CA) influences cereal production and environmental impacts. A few key insights: 🔹 Overall, CA resulted in a 3% reduction in yield and a 9% decline in yield stability.🔹 Crop-specific responses were clear: • Maize and wheat showed yield reductions • Barley showed no significant yield penalty 🔹 Minimum tillage practices proved effective in narrowing the yield gap.🔹 Higher soil clay content amplified both the yield gap and N₂O emissions under CA.🔹 Geospatial analysis revealed critical regions in Europe where CA adoption may face greater challenges. These findings help refine where and how conservation agriculture can be implemented to balance productivity and environmental sustainability.