Life cycle impact of Swiss arable cropping and forage production systems on global warming

Summary

The global warming potential caused by organic farming systems was analysed for all stages of the life cycle up to the farm gate for Swiss arable and forage production systems using the life cycle assessment method. The global warming potential of organic farming was 6 to 37% lower than that of the integrated production, the main reason being the ban of mineral nitrogen fertilisers in organic farming. A further improvement in organic systems could be achieved by a better management of the nitrogen cycle, the introduction of low tillage systems and an enhanced yield, leading to lower greenhouse gas emission per product unit.