Rice paddies significantly contribute to global methane emissions, with rice farming in Vietnam alone accounting for up to 15% of the country’s total emissions. By adopting innovative practices, Vietnam aims to reshape its rice industry and mitigate its environmental impact while ensuring profitability for farmers.
Vo Van Van, a rice farmer in the Long An province, is embracing new techniques to reduce water usage and methane emissions. He utilizes alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation, where paddy fields are not continuously submerged, resulting in less water consumption and lower methane production. Additionally, he employs a drone to fertilize his crops, saving on labor costs and ensuring precise fertilizer application.
These sustainable practices have proven beneficial for Van, leading to reduced costs and maintained crop yield. He can now sell his organic rice at a premium in European markets and has time to cultivate other crops in his garden. The Loc Troi Group, a prominent rice exporter, supports farmers like Van by providing training and resources to implement these methods.
The Loc Troi Group’s CEO, Nguyen Duy Thuan, emphasizes the economic advantages of these techniques, including reduced seed and water usage, as well as lower costs for pesticides, fertilizers, and labor. The group aims to expand the adoption of these practices to 300,000 hectares of farmland, significantly contributing to Vietnam’s goal of producing high-quality, low-emission rice on 1 million hectares by 2030.
Vietnam’s efforts in mitigating methane emissions in the rice industry align with its commitments under the Paris Agreement and its стремление to combat climate change. This focus on sustainable agriculture not only benefits the environment but also enhances the livelihoods of farmers and promotes economic growth.
The World Bank recognizes the cost-effectiveness of Vietnam’s methane mitigation strategies and supports the country’s endeavors. The bank collaborates with organizations such as the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) to encourage farmers to adopt practices that reduce microbial food sources, such as removing leftover straw from previous harvests.
In conclusion, Vietnam’s leadership in reshaping the rice industry demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability and economic progress. By implementing innovative techniques, farmers like Vo Van Van and organizations like the Loc Troi Group are paving the way for a more sustainable and profitable rice sector, setting an example for other rice-producing nations.
