Comparative eco-efficiency assessment of milled rice production from conventional and enhanced rice straw biogas system
2024
Gomez, C.C.
This study explores the eco-efficiency of milled rice production from a low-GHG emission system that utilizes rice straw as energy source to process the rice grain output, aiming to reduce farm emissions due to rice straw incorporation on soil, lower costs, and enhance competitiveness. By examining three rice production systems - conventional, low-GHG emission based on Straw Innovations' trail run, and a theoretical potential of low-GHG emission system modelled with the Aston Bioenergy Mass Energy Balance (BMEB) model- the research incorporates mass and energy balance, environmental life cycle, life cycle cost, and eco-efficiency assessments. The Aston Model reveals a substantial increase in biogas output, reaching 8,803,567 L, sufficient to power rice grain processing. Environmental assessment demonstrate the low-GHG system's significant GHG emission reduction of 27.62%, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional rice production. Despite economic challenges highlighted in the life cycle cost analysis, the study emphasizes, long-term environmental benefits and recommends strategies like optimization, government incentives, and carbon credits for economic viability. An eco-efficiency assessment underscores the environmental benefits of low-GHG systems, aligning with SDGs, 7, 8 and 13. Despite initial financial setbacks, prioritizing long-term environmental gains overcomes these challenges, providing valuable insights for balanced and sustainable rice production practices. The study advocates for the monetization of environmental benefits through carbon credits, contributing to global sustainability goals.
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