Objective: To evaluate the effect of incorporating microbial activators into the decomposition process of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) crop residues. Design/methodology/approach: Residue decomposition was evaluated using five treatments: T1, water; T2, water + molasses; T3, water + manure; T4, water + compost; and T5, water + a commercial product. The study was conducted under a completely randomized block design with subsampling. The following variables were measured over a seven-month period under field conditions: CO2 emissions, temperature, humidity, weight, and functional metabolic activity. Subsequently, these variables were evaluated for three additional months under laboratory conditions to verify consistency with the field results. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance and the least significant difference (LSD) test for mean comparisons (α = 0.05). Results: Treatments T2, T1, and T4 were found to accelerate the decomposition process of sugarcane residues, thereby enhancing soil microbial activity and promoting a significant balance in the carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio. This effect was associated with other variables, including microbial respiration, weight loss, and functional metabolic activity. Limitations on study/implications: This research was evaluated over two cycles. For subsequent studies, it is recommended to assess at least three cycles without pre-harvest burning in order to identify significant effects on soil organic matter and structure in relation to crop yield. Findings/conclusions: Microbial activators constitute a viable, sustainable, and effective alternative for crop residue management in the sugar agroindustry of the state of Veracruz, optimizing field management and fostering more ecologically sound agricultural practices.