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Strategy to cut European agricultural emissions by 40%
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February 18, 2026 | Open Access Government |

 

A study by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), published in Nature Communications, proposes that Europe can reduce agricultural GHG emissions by 40% through strategic land reallocation. Researchers used satellite data to identify 24 million hectares of low-productivity land, representing 14% of European agricultural operations, and suggest rewilding these areas while optimizing farming on fertile plains. In Norway, one-third of arable land produces only 20% of yields. The approach could increase crop yields by 10-20% on better land while reducing biodiversity pressure by 20%. Professor Francesco Cherubini emphasizes the environmental benefits of allowing trees, wetlands, and natural vegetation to reclaim degraded plots, creating carbon sinks and reducing erosion. The study offers a dual strategy of intensification and extensification without compromising food production.

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Strategy to cut European agricultural emissions by 40%
February 18, 2026 | Open Access Government | A study by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), published in Nature Communications, proposes that Europe can reduce agricultural GHG
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