Energy use and CO2 emissions of sweet potato production in Tarlac, Philippines

Abstract

In this study, the energy use and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission of sweet potato production in Tarlac, Philippines were evaluated. Data were collected from 180 farmers using structured survey questionnaires and face to face interview. Accordingly, the total input and output energy of sweet potato production was 29326.78 and 53885.90 MJ ha-1, respectively. Chemical fertilizers and diesel fuel provided the biggest portion of the total energy consumption in sweet potato production. The energy use efficiency, specific energy and energy productivity was 1.84, 1.95 MJ kg-1 and 0.51 kg MJ-1. Indirect and non-renewable forms of energy dominated the share of the total input energy. The total GHG emission of sweet potato production was 1432.18 kg CO2eq ha-1 (0.095 kg CO2 kg-1). Non-renewable sources of energy such as diesel fuel and chemical fertilizers were the main contributors of GHGs emission at 53.35% and 43.36%, respectively. The use of renewable sources of input energy can lead to lesser GHG emission, more sustainable and environment-friendly agricultural production system for sweet potato. Energy management should be considered as vital strategy for resource conservation, climate protection and to promote sustainable agriculture for sweet potato production.