QUANTIFICATION OF CONVENTIONAL/ECOLOGICAL INPUTS CONSUMPTION AND ANALYSIS OF THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT IN WALNUT CROP

Abstract

Quantifying conventional and organic inputs to walnut farming reveals significant differences in resource consumption and environmental impacts. Conventional walnut farming typically relies on synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and energy-intensive irrigation systems, resulting in higher greenhouse gas emissions compared to organic methods, which prioritize natural inputs and sustainable practices. Conventional practices consume a substantial amount of energy, primarily diesel for machinery, irrigation, and transportation. Key inputs include land, planting material, irrigation, fertilization, labor, disease and pest control, and infrastructure. Organic operations can reduce the use of synthetic inputs, reducing direct environmental impacts, but may require more labor and alternative pest management techniques.