Sustainable farming practices for the reduction of carbon footprint in agriculture: The case of Greece

Bilalis D., Kakabouki I., Roussis, I., Karydogianni, S., Stavropoulos P., Mavroeidis A., Kallergi, S., Chatzitriantafyllou, M., Anastasopoulou A., Kalikantzarou E., Trivellas P.

Authors

Bilalis D., Kakabouki I., Roussis, I., Karydogianni, S., Stavropoulos P., Mavroeidis A., Kallergi, S., Chatzitriantafyllou, M., Anastasopoulou A., Kalikantzarou E., Trivellas P.

Reference

Bilalis D., Kakabouki I., Roussis, I., Karydogianni, S., Stavropoulos P., Mavroeidis A., Kallergi, S., Chatzitriantafyllou, M., Anastasopoulou A., Kalikantzarou E., Trivellas P. (2026), Sustainable farming practices for the reduction of carbon footprint in agriculture: The case of Greece, Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, forthcoming

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring food security. This review paper examines sustainable farming practices that contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of agriculture, with a specific focus on Greece, a Mediterranean country characterized by diverse agroecological zones and climate vulnerability. Evidence on adoption levels and policy frameworks within Greece, including European Union climate initiatives and the Common Agricultural Policy are concisely assessed, while simultaneously addressing barriers such as small farm size and limited technical capacity among farmers. Case studies demonstrate both mitigation potential and implementation challenges. Here we argue that sustainable practices can significantly reduce agricultural emissions in Greece, but their effectiveness depends on policy support, education, and investment in innovation and rural infrastructure. Integration of research and policy is essential for achieving climate smart agriculture and long-term sustainability in the Greek agricultural sector especially under increasing climate stress and resource constraints while promoting economic viability for farmers.