Environmental and economic benefits of biological protection based on Bacillus subtilis in the case of potato: An ex-ante life-cycle analysis

Abstract

Potatoes, globally recognised as a diverse vegetable and staple crop, are fundamental to agriculture and human diets. Implementing sustainable development principles in agriculture necessitates improved production and post-harvest storage methods. Preserving resources, such as raw materials and water, and ensuring efficient energy use are crucial for cleaner and sustainable production. Compared to traditional methods that require intensive chemical use, finding ways to significantly reduce storage losses, improve tuber quality and prevent landfill waste can demonstrate the potential for cleaner and more sustainable potato production. This research conducts an ecological and economic evaluation of bacterial antagonist-based biopreparations (microbial inoculants derived from strain Bacillus subtilis Ch13), utilising a life cycle analysis (LCA) of potato production. The LCA evaluates the application of antagonistic bacterial biopreparations derived from bacteria antagonists (Pseudomonas, Bacillus) in the potato supply chain, spanning harvesting, cultivation and storage stages. These bacteria possess properties that stimulate defence reactions within plant tissues. This study observed a 15.7% reduction in the number of infected tubers during harvest, a 2.27% increase in dry matter content and a 15.6% decrease in losses. The life cycle impact assessment shows comparable or slightly higher Global Warming Potential (GWP) in the biological treatment scenario based on measured data. A literature-based sensitivity analysis shows potential for GWP reduction with fertiliser savings occurring due to improved nutrient efficiency, but this was not directly measured in the experiment. The study indicates the potential of bacterial antagonist-based biopreparations to substantially enhance sustainability in potato production, leading to reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions and minimised storage losses. These results suggest that such biopreparations offer a promising approach to improving sustainability in potato production by reducing storage losses, enhancing tuber quality and providing potential economic benefits.