Energy inputs in pest control using pesticides in New Zealand

Abstract

This chapter examines the energy consumption of pesticide applications in New Zealand. Energy use in pest control using pesticides is investigated in the horticultural, arable, pastoral and forestry sectors, based on 30 different groups of farm products.

On average, total energy consumption in pesticide applications in New Zealand was estimated at about 2,350,757 GJ. Energy use in pesticide applications was about 160 MJ/ha. The pastoral and horticultural sectors are ranked first and second in terms of total energy usage for pesticide applications, at about 1,109,389 GJ and 704,511 GJ, respectively. The horticultural sector has the most intensive pesticide consumption at around 5,855 MJ/ha.

The total operational energy was about 20 % of total energy use in pest control of which 90 % was for fuel. Herbicides are applied more than other pesticide in most agricultural sectors; therefore, the energy equivalent of herbicides is ranked first with 1,353,503 GJ and 58 % of total energy use. Fungicides and insecticides are mostly used in the horticultural sector.

Total CO₂ emissions from pesticide applications was estimated at around 145857 t, or approximately 10 kg/ha.