ASSESSMENT OF GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS ASSOCIATED WITH RAPESEED FARMING IN ROMANIA

Abstract

Agriculture plays a role in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, especially by cultivating biofuel crops like rapeseed (Brassica napus). This study assesses the GHG emissions associated with rapeseed farming in Romania, focusing on 2022–2024. Data were collected from rapeseed cultivation at Mihai Viteazu, Cluj, under various fertilization and irrigation conditions. The study reveals that GHG emissions range from 89 to 231 kg CO₂ eq/l biodiesel, with irrigation reducing emissions by approximately 1.3 times compared to non-irrigated conditions. Notably, nitrogen fertilization significantly increases nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions, which account for 80% of total GHG emissions, particularly under higher nitrogen application rates. The results highlight the need for optimized nitrogen management to balance yield increases with environmental impacts, as excessive nitrogen use intensifies NOx emissions due to enhanced nitrification and denitrification processes. The study also finds that irrigation mitigates GHG and NOx emissions, emphasizing its role in sustainable rapeseed farming. This research underscores the importance of precision nitrogen management and irrigation in reducing the carbon footprint of rapeseed biodiesel production while enhancing crop productivity in Romania.