Sustainable Maize Production and Carbon Footprint in Arid Land Context: Challenges and Perspectives

Abstract

Maize is a versatile crop that serves as a staple food for millions of people and provides various raw materials. Its adaptability to different climates and potential makes it economically valuable. However, the ongoing emissions of greenhouse gases pose significant challenges to sustain maize production. Sustainable agricultural practices are crucial to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and reduce carbon footprints. Conservation tillage practices based on no-till promote carbon sequestration, and reduce carbon footprints compared to conventional tillage. These practices potentially improve soil health and water productivity. This chapter explores various aspects to sustain maize production, with a focus on conventional and conservation tillage systems, engineering technologies, carbon footprint reduction. It discusses also the challenges and perspectives in achieving sustainable maize production. It begins with an overview of conventional maize farming, highlighting its practices and challenges. The second section explores the advantages of conservation tillage in maize production. The third part focuses on engineering technologies and precision agriculture tools, as well as remote sensing. In the fourth section, strategies for reducing carbon emissions and adopting clean energy in maize farming are considered. The final part addresses the challenges and perspectives for sustaining maize production, discussing barriers, opportunities, and potential solutions.