Environmental Efficiency of Monsoon Rice (Oryza sativa) Production between Transplanting and Broadcasting Sowing Methods in Myanmar

Abstract

Introduction Myanmar relies on rice for its food security and economic significance, ranking seventh in the world for rice exports as of 2021. The most significant concern in rice production is exceeding the recommended nitrogen (N) fertilizer usage rate. Nitrogen is a crucial fertilizer for rice production, but it poses negative environmental consequences, such as nitrous oxide emissions. Therefore, this study intended to assess the technical (TE) and environmental efficiency (EE) of monsoon rice production in Myanmar and compare the efficiencies of broadcasting (BC) and transplanting (TP) sowing methods. Methods A translog stochastic frontier production function approach estimated the output-oriented technical efficiency and environmental efficiency of monsoon rice production. The study conducted face-to-face interviews with 317 farmers in Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory, Myanmar. Results The overall mean TE and EE were 81% and 23%, respectively. The average TE and EE for N fertilizer were 84% and 35% using the TP method and 80% and 20% using the BC method, respectively. Conclusion Our findings confirmed that the TP method was technically and environmentally superior to the BC method. The adoption of the TP method should be promoted by highlighting its positive impacts on achieving sustainable monsoon rice production in Myanmar.