Energy use analysis of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production in Golestan Province and a few strategies for increasing resources productivity

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) as a unique crop in natural fiber production has an important role in texture industry. It has also a large share in oil production for human nutrition and as a protein concentrate for animal feeding. Therefore, cotton role in job opportunities in agriculture, industry and business divisions are undeniable. In order to determine the share of each direct and indirect energy inputs (consisted of fossil fuels, human labore and. ..) in energy use efficiency (EUE) of cotton production in Golestan Province (cotton pole of Iran) a field survey was conducted during 2010. Necessary information has been collected via technical questionnaire and face to face interview with 23 farmers who produced cotton in 0.5 to 50 ha. According to data analysis EUE of cotton production in Golestan province estimated as amount of 1.0968. Results showed that the share of variant inputs for cotton production were different. Fuel for tractor and irrigation pump have 24 and 30% of energy input, respectively and in overall 54% of input energy in cotton production was devoted to diesel fuel. Fertilizers and chemicals with 24 and 13% have second and third share of energy use. For improvising productivity of resources (water, soil and chemical inputs) and increment of EUE in cotton production at Golestan province a few technical and management strategy could be recommended. Our top recommendation have been focused on suitable fuel storage, correct operation and maintenance of machines, improvement of cultural practices and fertilizing management.