Eco-efficiency of Crop Production in Madhya Pradesh: A Directional Distance Function Approach

Abstract

The growing global population presents a dual challenge: increasing crop production while minimizing environmental impact. To overcome this challenge, the eco-efficiency of crops must be improved. Measuring eco-efficiency—defined as the ratio of desirable output (crop production) and undesirable output (environmental degradation) to resource use (inputs)—is crucial for sustainable agriculture. This study assesses the eco-efficiency of crop production in Madhya Pradesh, India, using life cycle assessment (LCA) and data envelopment analysis–directional distance function (DEA–DDF). We obtained the input data for crops from multiple packages of practices from government sources for the 2021–2022 agricultural year. LCA quantified the environmental impact of crop production, while DEA–DDF evaluated efficiency by considering both economic output and environmental degradation. Our results indicate that rainfed wheat, maize, sorghum, and soybean exhibit production inefficiencies, with an average inefficiency of 0.22, suggesting a 22% potential for improvement. Inefficient decision-making units can enhance efficiency by optimizing input use, reducing environmental degradation, and increasing crop and residue output. The study also determines target values for input reduction and output improvement to guide sustainable agriculture. It helps optimie crop eco-efficiency by emphasizing resource-efficient and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices, thereby supporting long-term food security. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.