Description
Book SynopsisEnergy in Agroecosystems: A Tool for Assessing Sustainability is the first book on energy analysis that is up-to-date and specifically dedicated to agriculture. It is written from an agroecological perspective and goes beyond the conventional analysis of the efficient use of energy. The book provide a methodological guide to assess energy efficiency and sustainability from an eco-energetic point of view.
Case studies from both Europe and America, which are representative of today's most used scales of analysis (crop, farm, local or national) and the different farm management practices (traditional, industrialized, and contemporary organic), apply this methodology This book will be of primary interest to researchers, practitioners, and students working in the areas of agroecology, sustainable agriculture, environmental science, energy analysis, natural resources management, rural development and international development.
Table of ContentsConcept and Methods. Energy in Agroecosystems. Energy Return on Investment (Eroi): More than a Tool for Energy Analysis. Methodology and Sources of Information. Case Studies. Diachronic Analysis. At Local Scale: Santa Fe, Spain. At National Scale: Spain. Synchronic Analysis. At Sectorial Scale: Case Studies of Livestock in Argentina, Brazil and Spain. At Crop Scale: Olive Groves, Avocado and Coffee. Conclusions: The Potential of This Tool for Assessing Sustainability. Appendix I: Conversion (WP Converters) Appendix II: Energy Inputs. References.
