Laser land leveling technology for paddy production in Vietnam: impact on efficient irrigation and water conservation

Abstract

This research investigates the empirical effects of the laser land leveling (LLL) adoption on irrigation water and water efficiency in paddy production in the Mekong Delta region (MDR), using the randomized controlled trial (RCT) approach incorporated into input demand function models. The descriptive analysis highlights the potential for water reuse through farmers’ drainage practices. However, the dependence on experiential methods for applying technology in paddy production poses challenges that could compromise long-term sustainability. The regression results indicate that the LLL treatment leads to savings of 1975 m³ ha⁻¹ and 1299.35 m³ ha⁻¹ in irrigation water and net water use in paddy production, respectively, compared to the control. These savings account for 20.52% of total irrigation water use and 28.64% of net water use. The projected savings on average are 375.51 and 247.05 million m³, respectively, for irrigation water and net water use with 5% implementation of the technology in the MDR. The research highlights the environmental benefits of the LLL technology and underscores the need for its promotion to achieve water conservation in paddy production, offering policymakers insights to enhance sustainable agriculture amid climate change and water scarcity. The study addresses significant gaps in the existing literature by providing an in-depth analysis of LLL technology’s impact on irrigation water and efficiency by extending the drainage performance within the paddy mono-cropping context and employing RCT methodology combined with input demand function models to comprehensively evaluate its impact on irrigation water usage.