Zero tillage

Zero-tillage or no-tillage is designed to generate higher yields while minimizing erosion and reducing costs of inputs and production. Adopters of zero-tillage practices in South Asia, specifically for the rice-wheat system, have reported yields that are greater than or equal to yields obtained through conventional practices.

The zero-tillage practice likewise reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and save water use by 25% compared with the conventional methods. The largest CO2 abatement is achieved through reduced diesel fuel consumption as plowing or harrowing before planting is not needed. Air pollution is also lessened because the no-till method discourages the burning of crop residue on the field.

Further reading

• Reduced and zero-tillage options

• Integrated crop and resource management in rice-wheat system of South Asia