Estimation of carbon footprint and global warming potential of barley (Hordeom Vulgare L.) (Case study: Rural areas of Shirvan city)

This study was conducted to investigate the ability of carbon sequestration in barley and to determine the global warming potential of this product in the cropping year 2020-2021 in rural areas Shirvan city. For this purpose, systematic random sampling was performed in 30 farms from 0-30 cm soil depth and consumption inputs were obtained through face-to-face questionnaire. The results showed that the soil carbon sequestration capacity in barley farms was equal to 1.74 ton/ha-1. Comparison of conversion coefficient of plant organs showed that spike had a higher conversion coefficient of 22.4% than root. The carbon sequestration capacity of spike, stem and barley root was determined as 1297.20, 620.62 and 114.00 kg.ha-1, respectively. Among the inputs, diesel fuel with an average of 552.70 kg.ha-1 had the highest role and electricity with an average of 6.85 kg.ha-1 had the least role in greenhouse gas emissions. Among greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide with 1135.79 kg.ha-1 had the highest share. The total global warming potential of one hectare of barley in Shirvan city was 1147.31 kg equivalent of carbon dioxide. The amount of carbon footprint obtained for the total plant biomass was equal to 0.28 kg equivalent to carbon dioxide per kg of barley biomass. In general, the obtained results showed that the barley product has an acceptable carbon sequestration capacity and is a suitable crop to be included in the model program of rural areas. Based on the results of this research, part of the gross production of rural areas of Shirvan city will be achieved through the cultivation of barley in marginal lands with low production capacity, which will play an important role in the development of these areas.