Smart Net-Zero

August 15, 2024 | Sambad English |

Scientists at the ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI) in Odisha, India, have developed an innovative solution to mitigate methane emissions from paddy fields. By isolating a methane-oxidizing bacterial strain (methanotroph MT-22) from the Sundarbans mangroves and developing a specialized formulation through extensive laboratory and field trials, the research team successfully achieved a 10–12% reduction in methane emissions when applied to rice fields.

Irrigated paddy fields currently contribute approximately 3.97 Tg of methane emissions annually in India. The new bacterial application can reduce emissions from 0.55 kg to 0.49 kg of methane per hectare per day—equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions of a diesel vehicle traveling 10 km daily. As the technology approaches commercial readiness, it offers promising economic opportunities for farmers through potential carbon credits while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns. With India cultivating rice across 44.6 million hectares, such innovative approaches are crucial for developing climate-smart agricultural practices.