A bibliometric analysis of carbon balance in agricultural systems

Anthropogenic activities contribute to global climate change, especially through increased emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). In Brazil, agriculture is the main emitting sector, largely due to the conversion of natural areas into productive systems. However, gaps remain in the understanding of how different agricultural systems influence the carbon (C) balance, which integrates GHG emissions and carbon inputs to the soil. Thus, the present study conducted a bibliometric analysis of scientific production on carbon balance in agricultural systems, highlighting the evolution of the topic in Brazil and worldwide, as well as its main challenges and perspectives. The research was carried out using the Scopus database, employing the terms “Carbon Balance” and “Balanço de Carbono,” with a focus on the subfield of Agricultural and Biological Sciences, covering articles and reviews published up to December 2025. The results indicate a significant growth in scientific output since the 2000s, with a strong concentration in the United States, China, Europe, and Australia. Within the scope of agricultural sciences, although Brazil ranks among the world’s leading agricultural producers, its scientific output remains modest. National research is mainly concentrated in public universities and federal institutions and in the Atlantic Forest and Amazon biomes. Other biomes, despite their great agricultural and ecological importance, remain underrepresented in studies. Therefore, expanding integrated research efforts and addressing geographical gaps are essential challenges for advancing knowledge on carbon balance and supporting public policies and sustainable agricultural practices.