Economic analysis and standardization of “pig-biogas-fruit” eco-agriculture model in South China

Taking Cangxi County, Sichuan Province, as a typical South China region for “pig-biogas-fruit” eco-agriculture model, rural household research and survey on standardized and non-standardized models were conducted. Standardized eco-agriculture models with “three constructions and three changes” including the construction of biogas digester, standardized fruit garden and pond, and changes in kitchen, toilet and hogpen are identified. Based on relative index analysis, the standardized model has remarkable ecological and economic benefits on pig breeding, fruit-tree production and soil fertility, and also increases farmers’ income. The study also shows that a typical household with standardized model needs 6 560 yuan for investment, present net financial value from investment is 28 700 yuan, with a dynamic investment payback period of 1.28 years. The farmer practicing the “pig-biogas-fruit” model invests less and achieves more, which is an effective way of increasing farmers’ income and is very suitable for wide application in South China.