Calculation model for carbon emissions in cereal agriculture

This paper aims to assess the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with the cultivation of wheat, corn and sunflower in Romania, by applying a calculation model based on specific emission factors. The analysis is based on official statistical data provided by the NIS, regarding the cultivated areas and productions obtained for wheat, corn and sunflower in Romania, during the period 2020-2024 and international reference sources for establishing emission factors. For each crop analyzed, greenhouse gas emissions were estimated by applying a simplified calculation model, according to IPCC recommendations. The model is aggregated and does not take into account detailed regional or technological differences (e.g. irrigated vs. non-irrigated, conventional vs. organic farming), but allows for a consistent comparison at the national level between crops and years. The conclusion is that the 3 crops contribute approximately 31% of total agricultural and agri-food emissions in 2024, up from 2023. Corn remains the main source of emissions from the crop sector, representing over 17.5% of the total. The 5% decrease in total emissions reflects the reduction in cultivated areas (especially corn), lower yields, and the slow transition to more sustainable practices.