Compaction effects on greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions from solid dairy manure

A novel micro-CT approach for in situ visualization of the spatial dynamics of mesovoids in aerobic composting piles

The spatial configuration of mesovoids profoundly affects the aerobic composting microenvironment, which governs vital processes such as greenhouse gas production and emission, thermal conduction, and overall composting efficiency. Nondestructive in-situ characterization of the composting spatial structure is crucial to better understand its interaction mechanism with the microenvironment. In this study, a valuable contribution to the field of composting research was made by introducing micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) tool for in situ three-dimensional (3D) visual characterizing the void structure dynamics of straw and manure compost pile units at the mesoscale. Representative samples at different composting stages derived from wheat straw and cow manure were procured by pre-embedding samplers in laboratory-based aerobic composting reactor systems. Based on an advanced Skyscan 1275 micro-CT system, scanning conditions and image processing algorithms were determined, and the void structure and their dynamic changes in the pile unit during composting were in-situ 3D visualized for the first time. The micro-CT images effectively reveal well-developed void structures exhibiting spatiotemporal dynamics during composting, and they exhibit excellent consistency with conventional macrophysical effects and wet chemical analyses. Micro-CT quantification results of the void structure parameters changes in pile unit during composting were as follows: percentage of the total voidage and the connected voidage in pile unit were in the range of 52.34%-58.56%, indicating a very suitable composting spatial structural microenvironment. This new micro-CT method provides a valuable perspective for analyzing and understanding the complex aerobic composting process.

Cultivating a sustainable future in the artificial intelligence era: A comprehensive assessment of greenhouse gas emissions and removals in agriculture

Agriculture is a leading sector in international initiatives to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability. This article exhaustively examines the removals and emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the agriculture industry. It also investigates an extensive range of GHG sources, including rice cultivation, enteric fermentation in livestock, and synthetic fertilisers and manure management. This research reveals the complex array of obstacles that are faced in the pursuit of reducing emissions and also investigates novel approaches to tackling them. This encompasses the implementation of monitoring systems powered by artificial intelligence, which have the capacity to fundamentally transform initiatives aimed at reducing emissions. Carbon capture technologies, another area investigated in this study, exhibit potential in further reducing GHGs. Sophisticated technologies, such as precision agriculture and the integration of renewable energy sources, can concurrently mitigate emissions and augment agricultural output. Conservation agriculture and agroforestry, among other sustainable agricultural practices, have the potential to facilitate emission reduction and enhance environmental stewardship. The paper emphasises the significance of financial incentives and policy frameworks that are conducive to the adoption of sustainable technologies and practices. This exhaustive evaluation provides a strategic plan for the agriculture industry to become more environmentally conscious and sustainable. Agriculture can significantly contribute to climate change mitigation and the promotion of a sustainable future by adopting a comprehensive approach that incorporates policy changes, technological advancements, and technological innovations.

Effects of slatted frame placed in compost pile on enhancing heat generation and organic matter degradation during high-moisture cow manure composting

Excess moisture content in cow manure inhibits the process of composting. This study examined the effects of introducing a slatted frame on temperature development, organic matter degradation, and moisture content during high-moisture composting. Twelve tons of cow manure was piled individually, and an iron slatted frame with a pipe and a plain frame filled inside with styrofoam was introduced in the treatment and control piles, respectively. Two hours after the start, running leachate via the pipe in the treatment pile was observed, but not in the control pile. The maximum temperatures as well as durations of the temperatures above 55°C of the treatment piles at all seven positions were higher than those of the control piles. In particular, four of the seven positions in the treatment pile exhibited more than twice the duration. Installing the slatted frame improved the organic matter degradation; the values of organic matter loss in the control and treatment were 48.0% and 58.4%, respectively. The final moisture content in the treated compost was 5% lower than that in the control. Overall, the introduction of a slatted frame generated higher temperatures and produced relatively dried and well-degraded compost.