New research shows that using wood mulch has a notable effect in reducing greenhouse gas  emissions. According to a new study studies vineyards and orchards utilizing wood mulch have cut their nitrous oxide emissions by over 25 percent. These same mulched areas also report a drop in soil nitrates of up to 74 percent. This is especially good news because soil nitrates can produce a greenhouse gas that is 300 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. Using wood mulch has many more benefits: It saves water, improves soil, combats pests and stops weeds.