Authors:

Abstract

The use of composite indicators is considered to be a unique approach for evaluating the sustainability of farming systems. This study attempted to compare the sustainability of paddy monoculture and paddy-maize rotation farming systems in the Anuradhapura district through developing indicators for economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Using a cluster sampling method, 100 farmers randomly from each farming system. Data collected through a pre-tested questionnaire were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative techniques. According to the Total Sustainability Index (TSI), 72% of the farmers of paddy monoculture farming systems and 83% of the farmers of paddy-maize rotation farming systems were sustainable with TSI ranging from 0.5 to 1. Regression results revealed that cost of production per acre, off-farm income, distance to public infrastructure, agrochemical usage per acre, level of integrated pest management were significantly (p<0.05) influencing on the paddy monoculture farming system; whereas total on-farm income per acre, distance to public infrastructure, agrochemical use per acre, level of integrated pest management for paddy-maize rotation farming system were significantly (p<0.05) influencing on the sustainability of paddy-maize rotation system. The study concludes that both the paddy-maize rotation system and paddy monoculture farming system are sustainable while the paddy-maize rotation farming system reflects higher sustainability in the Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka.

Keywords: Farming systems, Paddy-maize rotation, Paddy monoculture, Sustainability