Assessing Eco-Efficiency with Emphasis on Carbon Emissions from Fertilizers and Plastic Film Inputs

In the context of growing environmental challenges and the push for sustainable agriculture, this study delves into the eco-efficiency of three-season indica rice across 16 key provinces in China from 2004 to 2021. Utilizing the super-efficiency Slacks-Based Measure (SBM) model coupled with the Malmquist index, our approach uniquely incorporates undesirable outputs, focusing on carbon emissions from chemical and plastic inputs. Findings indicate that while the overall efficiency hinged around a modest mean, periods like 2005–2006 and 2017–2018 spotlighted the pivotal role of technological advancements and judicious resource use. The Malmquist Index revealed an intricate interplay between technological change and efficiency, notably when accounting for environmental impact. Diverse provincial efficiencies spotlighted the need for bespoke strategies harmonizing efficiency objectives with ecological sustainability. This study emphasizes the indispensable role of technological innovation in advancing eco-efficiency and fostering sustainable agricultural practices, urging for policy changes that prioritize both technology adoption and ecological awareness.