Crop Residues: The Unseen Threat to Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Crop residue management (CRM) is a critical aspect of sustainable agriculture, addressing significant environmental and economic challenges. In India, the widespread practice of burning crop residues leads to severe air pollution, soil degradation, and health hazards. This paper explores the importance of CRM in environmental conservation, its economic potential, and the sustainable practices available for managing crop residues. It highlights the detrimental effects of residue burning, such as the release of harmful gases (CO2, CH4, NH3), and the subsequent loss of soil nutrients and biomass. The paper also discusses alternative CRM strategies, including composting, mulching, bioenergy production, and biochar utilization, which offer solutions to mitigate environmental damage while improving agricultural productivity and economic returns. The findings underscore the need for integrated approaches involving government policies, technological innovations, and farmer education to promote sustainable CRM practices across India.