Evaluation of energy and emission of greenhouse gases for olive production in West Iran (Case study: Ilam province, Ilam city)

Olive is one of the water-resistant crops that has been cultivated in some parts of Iran. The aim of this study was to evaluate the energy consumption pattern and analyze the environmental effect of olive production.

The statistical sample of the study included 177 olive growers in Ilam province. To evaluate the energy consumption pattern, the indicators of Energy ratio, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy Gain were used. Also, in order to study of greenhouse gases emission in olive production systems, carbon dioxide equivalent emission coefficients were used for consumption inputs. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical methods and all data were recorded, categorized and evaluated in Excel software.

Based on the research results, Energy ratio, energy productivity, specific energy and net energy were calculated to be 1.36, 0.12 kgMJ-1, 8.66 mJ/kg-1 and 9175.04 mJ/ha-1, respectively. Direct and indirect energy consumption was 19969.1 and 5319 MJha-1. The amount of greenhouse gas emissions was estimated to be 1185.74 kg equivalent of carbon dioxide per hectare.

The total input and output energy in the olive production process was estimated to be 25288.04 and 34463.08 MJha-1 respectively. Electricity input and nitrogen fertilizer had the highest share of input energies with 16.81% and 73.78%, respectively. It is suggested that by using appropriate methods such as using high-yield cultivars, the energy productivity should be increased.