Investigation of the energy use and environmental emissions assessment in the cultivation of soybean and peanut: A case study

Authors

1 Department of Biosystem Engineering, Takestan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Takestan, Iran.

2 Department of Mechanics, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

3 Department of Food Science and Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Earth Resources Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

This research aims to explore the energy usage and environmental impact of cultivating soybean and peanut, with a specific focus on a case study. The cultivation of these crops is crucial for agricultural production, and understanding their energy use and potential damage is essential for sustainable farming. The results of this study will be valuable for farmers, policymakers, and researchers working towards sustainable agricultural production. The study reveals that soybean production in Ardabil province of total energy was 43170.20 MJ ha-1, also, output energy was 40417.28 MJ ha-1, while peanut production requires 28677.36 MJ ha-1 of total energy and produces 28677.36 MJ ha-1 of output energy. The results of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) show that emissions on farms are closely related to the inputs used in soybean and peanut production. Diesel fuel and chemical fertilizers are the main sources of emissions in both systems, with soybean farming showing higher levels of diesel fuel pollutants due to reduced usage compared to peanuts. The distribution of emissions from different sources in soybean and peanut production is highlighted in the study. Both methods of production have a significant impact on human health, with soybean responsible for 70% of emissions and peanuts contributing 65%. Diesel fuel and nitrogen fertilizer have the most significant environmental impact, accounting for over 50% of the overall impact. Proper management of nitrogen fertilizer is essential for maximizing crop growth and yield, making it a top priority for researchers and farmers.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Agricultural Mechanization

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 May 2024

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History

  • Receive Date: 18 January 2024
  • Revise Date: 09 May 2024
  • Accept Date: 15 May 2024

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