Smart Net-Zero

February 2, 2025 | International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) |

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Kubota Corporation have launched a field experiment to evaluate strategies for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in rice cultivation. The project combines Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and rice straw removal to mitigate emissions while maintaining rice growth, yield, and quality to support food security. Funded by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF), the initiative aligns with ASEAN’s carbon neutrality and circular agriculture goals. IRRI Senior Scientist Dr. Kazuki Saito emphasized the partnership’s role in co-developing integrated low-carbon practices for rice, aiming to achieve both food security and carbon neutrality. By collaborating with Kubota Corporation, IRRI aims to scale these solutions for broader adoption. Kubota Philippines President Mr. Yodo Kawase reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing mechanized and sustainable agricultural innovations.