Increasing Sugarcane Production Eco-Efficiency: A DEA Analysis with Different Sugarcane Varieties

Abstract

The development of new sugarcane varieties affects crop production positively. However, only some studies have investigated how the use of different sugarcane varieties reacts to the impact of climate change, and how to improve sugarcane production efficiency considering the use of different sugarcane varieties in the field. This research hypothesizes that it is possible to mitigate climate change’s impact on sugarcane production and improve eco-efficiency if the proper sugarcane varieties are chosen. The main objective is to analyze the influence of different sugarcane varieties on production eco-efficiency. An econometric study unveiled the main elements affecting sugarcane production in this research. Afterward, a data envelopment analysis determined the sugarcane varieties with more efficient production. The results indicated that climate impact on production was irrelevant when controlling for different sugarcane varieties. Furthermore, it was found that through correct variety choosing, it is possible to improve harvest efficiency. The outcome of this research contributes to achieving the United Nations SDGs 1, 2, 7, 9, and 15.