Evaluation of energy efficiency and environmental effects of sowing methods in chickpea (Cicer arietinum) production under ırrigated and dry farming conditions

This study comparatively evaluated the yield, energy efficiency, and environmental impacts of a conventional combined grain sowing machine (CGS) and a pneumatic precision double-row cross-sowing machine (PCPS) used in chickpea production under irrigated and dry conditions in Central Anatolia. Experiments were conducted using a two-factor randomized block design; the effects of planting method and farming conditions on grain yield, energy inputs and outputs, energy efficiency indicators, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and CO₂ absorption were investigated. The results showed that the planting method had statistically significant effects on grain yield, energy efficiency, output/input ratio, and greenhouse gas emissions per unit of crop (IGHG) (p < 0.05). The PCPS application exhibited higher performance compared to the CGS in both irrigated and dry conditions. In irrigated conditions, a grain yield of 1756 kg ha⁻¹ was obtained with PCPS application, which is 47.1% higher than with CGS. In dry conditions, PCPS application provided a yield of 1150 kg ha⁻¹, representing a 38.6% increase compared to CGS. According to the energy analysis, the maximum total energy output 32001.24 MJ ha⁻¹, net energy efficiency 21782.49 MJ ha⁻, output/input ratio 3.13, and energy efficiency 0.17 were determined with PCPS application under irrigated agricultural conditions. Energy consumption per unit of product was found to be lower with PCPS application. Total GHG emissions were calculated as 1838.93 kgCO₂eq ha⁻¹ for PCPS and CGS applications under irrigated conditions, respectively, while emissions per unit of product were found to be 1.05 kgCO₂eq kg⁻¹ in the PCPS application under irrigated conditions, 32% lower than in CGS. The highest CO₂ absorption was determined in the PCPS application under irrigated conditions. In conclusion, the pneumatic precision double-row cross-seeding machine offers an environmentally friendly and effective mechanization alternative for sustainable chickpea production by providing higher yield, superior energy efficiency, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and higher CO₂ absorption.