Modelling the environmental impact of sesame production under different fertilizer and water use regimes.

Sesame is a vital oilseed crop that is valued for its high-quality oil and nutritious seeds. It is imperative to enhance sesame yields through fertilization, yet it is equally crucial to understand the environmental impacts of these practices if sustainable production is to be achieved. The present study evaluated the environmental effects of various fertilization treatments (bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, chemical fertilisers, and their combinations) under normal and drought stress conditions using a life cycle assessment (LCA) following ISO 14,040 and ISO 14,044 standards. The research was conducted in 2022 at two farms in Rodan city, Hormozgan province, Iran. The IMPACT 2002 + method was employed to assess the impacts across 16 scenarios for producing one ton of sesame seed. The findings of the study indicated that the utilisation of chemical fertilisers (NPK) in conjunction with standard irrigation practices resulted in the most significant environmental impacts, particularly with regard to human health. In contrast, the control treatment subjected to drought stress exhibited the least detrimental outcomes. The implementation of low-input and organic management practices, including the reduction of nitrogen fertilisers and the incorporation of biofertilisers or nitrogen-fixing crops, has been demonstrated to significantly mitigate environmental impacts. However, it should be noted that these practices have also been shown to result in a reduction in crop yields. These findings underscore the potential of biofertilizers and drought stress management to promote sustainable sesame production, offering valuable insights for policymakers and farmers seeking to balance productivity with environmental stewardship.