Pulses combine three sustainability attributes that are difficult to find together in a single protein crop: nitrogen fixation (reducing fertilizer-related emissions), low water requirements, and soil-health benefits that carry forward to following crops. The FAO and Pulse Canada both highlight pulses for these reasons. In a Canadian context, the prairie growing environment — combined with widespread no-till and reduced-fallow practices — supports favourable Life Cycle Assessment outcomes for pulses such as lentils and chickpeas.