SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION OF ORIENTAL TOBACCO IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA

Jane ALEKSOSKI

Abstract

Sustainable tobacco production is defined as the efficient production of quality tobacco raw material, under conditions that limit the negative impact on the environment, in a way that improves the socio-economic conditions of people and their communities in the areas of tobacco production. This paper aimed to investigate the sustainability of oriental tobacco production in the Republic of North Macedonia, where the best fine-leaf aromatic oriental tobaccos are traditionally grown. Poor soils and a dry climate are most suitable for its cultivation. In addition, there are several advantages from a social and economic point of view. The production of oriental tobacco, compared to other types, has significantly less harmful impact on the environment, uses less water for irrigation, less amount of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, as well as less fossil fuel, and occupies significantly smaller areas. Sun-cured types of tobacco do not require any fossil fuels for curing compared to the flue-cured types of tobacco grown worldwide. Scientific Tobacco Institute - Prilep is engaged in creating sustainable production strategies for soil and water conservation, adopting precision agricultural measures and low input strategies to help farmers cope with the global crisis and climate change. Its research activity is also focused on the improvement of the existing and the creation of new, sustainable, and draught-resistant varieties. In this paper, we were focused on the economic viability of oriental tobacco production and the adoption of new methods to achieve good agricultural practices and better environmental management.

Pages: 113 - 119