Chinese cropping systems release more greenhouse gases than they absorb, despite storing carbon in the soil. The study looked at how farming practices affect greenhouse gas emissions, including nitrous oxide and methane, as well as carbon dioxide from managing crops. While soil carbon increased, emissions from farming activities added more carbon to the atmosphere. This means Chinese crop production is a net source of greenhouse gases, with emissions outweighing carbon sequestration. The main culprits are nitrogen fertilization, power use for irrigation, and emissions from soil. To reduce emissions and create a low-carbon future, better farming practices like fertilization and irrigation management are needed.