2 Evaluation of Energy Efficiency Policies on Agricultural Sector in Turkey Within the Scope of Sustainable Development

Prof. Ayşe Yiğit Şakar

Energy efficiency is one of the basic parameters of sustainable development with its economic, environmental, social and cultural dimensions. The share of agriculture sector in the total final energy consumption in 2016 decreased compared to other sectors in Turkey. While this share was 5% in 2000, it decreased to 4% in 2016. A rapid increase was observed in the energy consumption of the agricultural sector between 2000 and 2008, whereas an average 3% decrease was recorded on annual basis between 2008 and 2016. Although the share of agriculture in the sector is low in total energy consumption, industrialization in the sector and methane gases emitted by animals contribute to the formation of greenhouse gases. Therefore, the importance of energy efficiency policies is gradually recognized in terms of sustainable environment and sustainable development. In addition to contributing to environmental sustainability, energy efficiency studies in the agricultural sector also contribute to economical sustainability. Reducing energy costs without decreasing production quantity and quality by increasing energy efficiency will not only increase farmers’ disposable income, but also help to reduce prices of agricultural products and external dependency on energy supply. When considering our dependency around 76% on imports of energy resources based on fossil fuels, every success in energy efficiency policies will contribute to economic and political stability. Protecting and improving the environment, preventing pollution; providing economic, cultural and social development and making plans and regulations to improve agriculture in particular are constitutional duties of the state. In this paper, recommendations will be presented by evaluating tax incentives and measures to provide energy efficiency in the agricultural sector in Turkey.