An input-output energy analysis in pistachio nut production: A case study for Southeastern Anotolia region of Turkey

Abstract

This research examined the energy use pattern and energy input/output analysis of pistachio nut widely grown in the South-eastern Anatolia, Turkey. For this purpose, data from pistachio nut production were collected in 61 farms from ten villages by a questionnaire which was selected according to their regional properties. As a result, the total energy input used in various farm operations for cultivating the pistachio nut fruit was calculated to be 4286.8 MJ ha^-1. Out of all operations, tillage consumed maximum energy. This operation was followed by spraying, and then by harvesting, transportation, and fertilizer application. The total energy requirement consumed in various energy sources for the pistachio nut fruit was calculated as 12044.0 MJ ha^-1. The average fruit yield of the pistachio nut was determined as 1500 kg ha^-1 and its output energy was calculated as 17 700 MJ ha^-1.

Key words: Energy use, input-output energy, pistachio nut, South-eastern Anatolia.