Embedding gender factor in energy input–output analysis of paddy production systems in Mazandaran Province, Iran

Abstract

This study explores gender in the energy input–output analysis by comparing the energy indicators in paddy production in female-headed farms and male-headed farms during years of 2014–2015 in Mazandaran Province. Questionnaires were used to collect data from 120 paddy farmers (60 males and 60 females). Energy indicators were calculated for female- and male-headed farms. Results revealed noticeable variations in some important energy indicators between female- and male-headed farms. A significant difference was observed in terms of total energy input. The majority of energy input consumption for both female- and male-headed farms was devoted to diesel fuel, fertilizers, especially nitrogen fertilizers, and machinery. Results indicated that there was no significant difference between male-headed and female-headed farms in terms of net energy and specific energy, but energy use efficiency and energy productivity were significantly higher for female-headed farms. Then, it can be argued that gender factor had a significant impact on amount of direct, indirect, and renewable energy inputs. Based on our findings, female-headed rice systems were more efficient, where fossil-based inputs were used more environment friendly than male-headed farms. Finally, targeted “soft” policies like gender-sensitive capacity-developing program were proposed.

Keywords

Gender / Energy / Efficiency / Productivity / Agriculture

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