Environmental Impact Decision Support Tools for Horticulture Farming: Evaluation of GHG Calculators

Abstract

Horticulture is essential in the European agricultural sector and fundamental for many EU member states. Decision Support Systems and Tools can play an essential role in a shift to result-based agriculture and evidence-based decision making, improving productivity and environmental performance of farming practices. Investigations have been conducted on horticulture crop and farming impact on the environment and Green House Gas emissions. Despite the availability of a broad spectrum of tools, the use of Decision Support Tools in agriculture in Europe could be much higher. This research aims to analyze and recommend environmental impact Decision Support Tools for small and medium-sized companies to approach, measure, and evaluate horticulture farming. The research methodology includes a systematic review, bibliometric analysis, Multicriteria Decision analysis, and a case study analysis. During the research, multiple tools, including calculators used for an impact assessment of the agricultural sector, were selected. After applying eligibility criteria, an in-depth analysis of eight of the most suitable calculators was performed. The results of the Multicriteria Decision analysis show that the Solagro Carbon Calculator, The Farm Carbon Calculator, and the Cool Farm Tool are recommended in the first place as Green House Gas calculators for farmers.

Assessment of Beef Manure Economic Value by the Method of Equivalent Green and Mineral Fertilizer Substitution

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Sustainability Assessment of Bioresources. Latvian cases

“…In [6], a study on USA egg production is conducted, revealing a decrease in GHG emissions over the years, emphasizing the importance of considering local conditions. In [7], a comparative analysis of GHG calculators is conducted, highlighting variations in emissions estimates due to differences in calculation methods and input parameters. Case studies and the performance of GHG calculators emphasize the role of uncertainty in emission estimates and recommend improved data collection and model validation.…”