There is potential to transform agriculture into an efficient and sustainable source of income for a large fraction of the world's population through the dissemination of new farming techniques. Mitigation opportunities in this sector could technically save as much as 6 billion tons of CO₂e annually by 2030 according to the IPCC.

Mitigation at this level represents approximately a 12% reduction in annual anthropogenic CO₂e emissions from 2009 levels. Achieving these reductions by 2020 hinges on the ability to accelerate the use of low-carbon technologies. Incentives to support low-carbon approaches to agricultural, as well as technology and knowledge transfer are important components.

The largest opportunities for emissions reduction in the agricultural sector are in the areas of cropland and grazing land management. Restoration of cultivated organic soils and degraded lands are also excellent opportunities for mitigation.

Market-based Approaches
Farming approaches that enhance crop and livestock productivity while reducing CO₂e emissions make attractive investments for farmers provided appropriate financing is available. Examples of cropland management techniques that reduce CO₂e and enhance productivity, as reported by the IPCC, include enhanced crop varieties, extended crop rotations, and reductions in fallow (unplanted) land.

The sale of enhanced crop varieties is a business opportunity in global agricultural markets. Reduced and more efficient use of fertilizer can decrease N₂O emissions and save money. Business models that sell application or management technology to reduce fertilizer use could be important. Bioenergy from crops or residues could further reduce emissions, while generating valuable energy. Another example of energy production that reduces CO₂e emissions is methane capture, from manure and other sources, for biogas.

Ancillary benefits to society of new farming practices include reduced pollution from farming and increased biodiversity. Capturing these public benefits into individual decision-making, however, may require concerted regulatory action.