The Consequences of Tillage Technology: The Sustainability Perspective (The Case of Fars Province, Iran)

Activities to reduce soil erosion and to improve soil fertility, agricultural production and finally, crop income have been considered to be fundamental for the implementation of sustainable agriculture in Iran. This research investigates the effects of no-till (NL) technology on reducing soil erosion and increasing agricultural income and eventually achieving sustainability. Data were collected with a questionnaire. The research sample including 165 NL adopter farmers was selected using multi-stage stratified random sampling method in Fars Province, Iran. The findings revealed that this technology improves performance and reduces water, energy and input consumption. The findings contribute to understanding the effects of no-till technology on agricultural systems. Also, information is provided to help the necessary planning for more effective implementation of no-till technology. According to the results of regression, wheat yields, increased use of pesticides, awareness of the benefits, and satisfaction with NL technology are the factors underpinning farmers` willingness to keep using NL technology.