Carbon and Water Footprints of Cotton Production in Punjab, Pakistan: Implications for Climate-Smart Agricultural Policy
Carbon and Water Footprints of Cotton
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66529/agripat.2026.2.3.96Keywords:
Cotton; Carbon Footprint; Water Footprint; Climate-Smart Agriculture; Punjab; Agricultural Policy; PakistanAbstract
Cotton is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s agricultural economy and textile industry, yet its production contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption. This study assessed the carbon footprint (CF), water footprint (WF), and water-use efficiency (WUE) of cotton production among 200 farm households in District Vehari, Punjab, categorized as small, medium, and large farms. Results showed an average carbon footprint of 613.2 kg CO₂-eq per acre, with electricity, diesel, and urea accounting for nearly 89% of total emissions. Significant differences in CF and WUE were observed across farm sizes, while the average water footprint of seed cotton (7.23 m³/kg) did not vary significantly. Regression analysis revealed that farm size and education positively influenced CF, whereas household income had a negative effect. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions in irrigation management, energy use, input efficiency, and extension services. The study provides farm-size-specific evidence to support climate-smart cotton production and sustainable resource management in Pakistan.
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