Context The increasing reliance on synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilizers and intensive soil management in vegetable production systems has led to substantial emissions of nitrogenous gases, including ammonia, nitric oxide, and nitrous oxide (N2O). Among these, N2O is a long-lived greenhouse gas with a high global warming potential (273 times that of CO2), making vegetable production a significant contributor to climate forcing due to high N demand and use, frequent irrigation, and low fertilizer recovery. Objective This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on best management practices (BMPs) for mitigating N2O emissions from vegetable production systems, with an emphasis on approaches that enhance N use efficiency while sustaining crop productivity and profitability. Methods A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted to evaluate N use patterns, N2O production pathways, emission drivers, and mitigation strategies in vegetable cropping systems. Studies examining practices such as fertilizer management, soil amendments, irrigation, microbial use, precision technologies, and integrated approaches were critically reviewed, and knowledge gaps were identified. Results The reviewed evidence indicates that excessive N application, poor synchronization between N supply and crop demand, and intensive irrigation are the primary drivers of elevated N2O emissions in vegetable cultivation. BMPs such as nitrification inhibitors; optimized fertilizer rates, timing, and placement; precision fertigation; negative pressure irrigation; and biochar amendments consistently reduced N2O emissions, often without yield penalties. The effectiveness of these strategies varies with soil type, climate, and crop type. Conclusions Mitigating N2O emissions in vegetable production requires shifting from input-intensive practices toward precise, holistic N management that integrates fertilizer, water, and soil management strategies. Single interventions can reduce emissions, but their effectiveness is strongly enhanced when implemented as part of coordinated management efforts. Implications Adopting BMPs and integrated N management can substantially reduce the climate footprint of vegetable production while maintaining economic viability. Future research should prioritize system-level assessments, long-term field studies including N2O emissions, and region-specific guidelines to support scalable, climate-smart vegetable production.
