Agriculture: "Gains in productivity and improvements in GHG emissions" since 1990 (OECD report)

Agricultural production in OECD countries has risen by 33% since 1990, while agricultural land area has fallen by almost 11% and agricultural greenhouse gas emissions have remained relatively stable. These are the conclusions of a report ("Environmental Performance of Agriculture in OECD Countries 2026") published by the international organisation on 13/05/2026.

The report presents trends in the environmental performance of agriculture in the 38 member countries* over the period 1990-2023. In particular, it shows an increase in production efficiency, a decrease in the use of inputs and a reduction in pollution per unit of agricultural production. In addition, indicators relating to input use show a fall in fertiliser consumption and an increase in on-farm energy consumption.

" These trends highlight both significant gains in agricultural productivity and an improvement in GHG emissions per unit of production. We also found a reduction in the median nutrient balance (the difference between nutrients supplied and nutrients withdrawn) in OECD member countries and increased nutrient use…