• The capacity
of the collection machines was 0.87–2.47 t per hour
for operation in the rice field with a straw yield of 4.72 t per
ha. This mechanized operation can reduce labor requirement by
90%. The specific weight of baled straw was 73–104 kg m−3 at a
moisture content of 12.4 (±1.21)% in wet basis, higher by 50–100%
than that of loose rice straw.
• Total energy consumption required was from 351 to 588 MJ
per ton of straw collected, which accounted for 10–17% of the
total input energy of using the collected straw for biogas production.
This energy consumption from mechanization caused GHGE
of 60–165 kg CO2 equivalent per ton of collected straw.
• The cost of straw collection ranged from US$12 to US$18
per ton of straw in the MD, accounting for 10–20% of the total
investment cost of biogas or mushroom production; net profits of
mushroom production was US$123 (±14) per ton of straw used.
This study illustrated the feasibility of the mechanization of rice
straw collection. Despite fossil fuel consumption in mechanization
resulting in GHGE, mechanized rice straw collection can help avoid
in-field burning, produce feedstock for further sustainable processing,
and add value to rice production.