Energetic and Economic Evaluation of Olive Production Systems: A Comparative Assessment of Chemical, Mechanical, and Integrated Weed Management Strategies

ماشین های کشاورزی

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 21 June 2025   

Document Type: Research Article-en

DOI: 10.22067/jam.2025.91522.1329

Authors

B. Mohammadi; A. R. Yousefi; M. Namdari^* ; M. Heydari

Department of Plant Production and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zanjan, Iran

Abstract

This study evaluates the energy consumption and economic performance of three different weed control methods employed in olive orchards in Tarom County, Zanjan Province, Iran, with an emphasis on sustainable agriculture. The objective is to assess the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of different weed management systems. The analysis includes chemical weed control (System I), mechanical control (System II), and integrated weed management (System III). Data were collected through interviews with 50 olive farmers, supplemented by official agricultural records. Results show that total energy consumption was highest in System III (93,069.16 MJ ha^-1), and lowest in System I (64,297.16 MJ ha^-1). System I also demonstrated superior energy efficiency (0.74), output energy (47,648.40 MJ ha^-1), and energy productivity (0.06 kg MJ^-1), making it the most viable option for optimizing energy consumption. Economically, System I generated the highest net profit (4,662.28 $ ha^-1) and benefit-cost ratio (2.66), outperforming Systems II (3,073.31 $ ha^-1; BCR: 2.16) and III (2,953.57 $ ha^-1; BCR: 1.97). The study concludes that System I, with its efficient use of renewable energy, is the most viable option in terms of both energy and economic performance, providing a balance between low energy input and high yield, thus maximizing profits and minimizing production costs. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate weed control methods to optimize energy use and reduce overall production costs in olive cultivation.

Keywords

Affordability; Efficiency; Energy; Sustainability; Weeds

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