Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Applied Fruit Science, cilt.67, sa.5, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
The agricultural sector, as one of the primary activities requiring extensive land use in rural areas, is among the sectors with a significant impact on global climate change. In this context, carbon emissions generated during agricultural production processes directly affect environmental dynamics, while field operations involving machinery contribute to increased energy consumption in the sector. Implementing sustainable agricultural practices has become a strategic necessity to mitigate the environmental impact of the agricultural sector in combating climate change. This study analyzed energy use, energy input–output balance, and carbon footprint in orange production across various villages in the Yüreğir district of Adana Province, Türkiye, based on the direct use of chemical inputs per unit production area (ha). Data collected through face-to-face surveys with 50 producers were utilized to examine the potential impacts of agricultural production on climate change. All stages of production were evaluated in detail, with a particular focus on processes such as tractor and equipment use and fuel consumption. The results revealed that the average total energy consumption per hectare was 35,317.81 MJ. Overall, 93.3% of the total energy consumption of 35,317.81 was determined to be indirect energy, while 6.7% was determined to be direct energy. Fertilization contributed the highest carbon emissions (1359.18 kg CO2 ha−1). Planting, harvesting, and pruning had the lowest emissions, at 33.31, 18.26, and 3.02 kg CO2 ha−1, respectively. These findings highlight the need to develop strategies that improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions in orange production in Yüreğir. Regional calculations can support a comprehensive database on energy use and emissions, aiding strategic decisions and promoting more sustainable production.