Determinants of adoption of cattle manure briquettes: a logistic regression study among salt farmers in rural Aceh, Indonesia

Introduction The increasing pressure on rural energy systems and the environmental burden of unmanaged livestock waste highlight the need for locally appropriate bioenergy solutions. However, little is known about the socio-behavioral determinants driving farmers' willingness to adopt livestock-based briquettes, particularly in traditional salt-farming communities where technological transitions remain slow. Methods This study examines the economic, environmental, social, and policy factors influencing the adoption of cow-manure-based briquettes among salt farmers in Pidie, Aceh, Indonesia, using survey data from 56 farmers analyzed through binary logistic regression. Results The results indicate that policy support, economic feasibility, and environmental awareness are the strongest predictors of adoption intention, while social influence shows only marginal effects. Discussion These findings demonstrate that adoption is shaped less by the briquettes' technical performance and more by institutional assurance and perceived economic benefit. The study offers novel insights into energy-transition dynamics within small-scale salt production systems and provides actionable policy implications, including the need for targeted regulatory incentives, financial support schemes, and inclusive capacity-building programs. Strengthening these dimensions can accelerate the shift away from firewood dependence, reduce deforestation risks, and promote circular livestock-based bioenergy pathways in rural coastal economies.