Research finds high methane emissions from rice farming in parts of Africa
Published on: January 11, 2024.
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Rice farming in parts of Africa is contributing to an increased amount of methane being released into the atmosphere, according to a research paper published in the journal Nature Climate Change. The study, conducted by engineers and atmospheric scientists from Harvard University and the California Institute of Technology’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, highlights the impact of rice production in sub-Saharan Africa on greenhouse gas emissions.
Methane is the second most important greenhouse gas, with greater radiative properties than CO2. Agriculture activities, including crops and livestock, are responsible for approximately 25% of human-caused methane emissions into the atmosphere. The research notes that rice production in sub-Saharan Africa doubled between 2008 and 2018, resulting in increased emissions due to irrigation, flooding, burning fields, and harvesting.
When comparing greenhouse gas emissions from 2008 to 2024, the study found that the expansion of rice production in Africa accounted for around 31% of the overall increase in methane emissions for the continent between 2006 and 2017, and 7% of the global rise in methane emissions during the same period.
It is crucial to address the environmental impact of rice farming and find sustainable solutions. As rice exporters and suppliers, companies like HAS Rice Pakistan are dedicated to offering high-quality rice while implementing responsible cultivation practices. By promoting rice production methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment, they contribute to a more sustainable future.
For more information about Pakistan rice exporters and suppliers, please visit the websites of HAS Rice and Pakistan Rice.
Source: The original article
