Work

Effectiveness of Agricultural Technology Services on Fertilizer Reduction in Wheat Production in China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Under the intensifying constraints of resources and environment, reducing fertilizer use while enhancing efficiency in China’s grain production has become imperative. This study empirically analyzes the effect of agricultural technical services on fertilizer reduction in wheat production using 2024 micro-survey data. Agricultural technical services exert a significantly negative influence on the fertilization intensity among wheat growers. In comparison with non-adopters, adopters achieve a reduction in fertilization amounting to 8.351 kg/mu (equivalent to 125.265 kg/ha) and realize a decrease in chemical fertilizer costs of CNY 26.735/mu (or USD 56.625/ha). Additionally, from the perspective of service components heterogeneity, soil testing, formula fertilization, mechanical fertilization, and straw returning significantly contribute to fertilizer reduction. From the perspective of service model heterogeneity, if farmers participating in market-oriented, cooperative, and industrialized services discontinue participation, their fertilizer application intensity would increase by 5.43%, 7.96%, and 12.79%, respectively. Finally, this study calls on the government to further leverage the technological dissemination advantages of agricultural technology service institutions, guide farmers to reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, so as to accelerate the realization of more sustainable agriculture.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17072840

Authors: Chenyang Liu, Tiehui Zhu, Ling Xin

Institution: Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Agricultural Innovations and Practices

Subfield: General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896