Global Rice News

Debunking the Myth: Rice Crop Burning and Smog in Punjab

There has been an ongoing debate surrounding the primary cause of smog in Punjab, with many attributing it to the burning of rice crop residue. However, recent evidence suggests that this may not be the case. While policymakers and urban residents often place the blame on farmers, studies indicate that other sectors contribute significantly more to smog emissions.

The Evidence

Two studies shed light on the issue. The first, conducted by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation in 2018-19, analyzed the entire Punjab region. According to this study, crop residue burning contributes only 20% to smog, while the transport sector is the largest contributor at 43%. Industry follows at 25%, and the power sector accounts for 12% of emissions.

The second study, conducted by The Urban Unit in 2022, focused specifically on Lahore. It revealed that rice crop burning contributes a mere 4% to smog in the city. The transport sector is the primary culprit, responsible for a staggering 83% of emissions. These findings clearly demonstrate that the agriculture sector, including the burning of rice crop residue, is not the main cause of smog in Punjab or Lahore.

Addressing Misconceptions

Another misconception that needs to be debunked is the belief that smog only occurs during the winter months, particularly during the last two months of the rice harvesting season. Historical data reveals that particulate matter is consistently present in the country’s atmosphere throughout the year. Therefore, it is unfair to solely blame farmers for the year-round presence of smog.

So why do farmers continue to burn rice stubble? Farming practices and market distortions play a significant role. Farmers face price distortions in both input and output markets. They are forced to sell their crops at lower prices than the government’s announced rate. Additionally, input prices, such as fertilizers, skyrocket when they are needed the most. These challenges lead farmers to opt for quick and cost-effective land clearance methods, such as burning crop residue.

A Holistic Approach

Addressing the issue of crop residue burning requires a multifaceted and continuous approach. Technological advancements, policy reforms, financial incentives, and community engagement can all contribute to reducing this practice and improving air quality while promoting sustainable agricultural methods.

Farmers need a stable input and output market to make better decisions. The government’s plans to provide subsidised machines like happy seeders to farmers have been ineffective due to incomplete implementation. Allocating financial resources specifically for tackling crop residue burning could have a more significant impact.

Utilizing locally developed machines, such as rice stubble shredders and happy seeders, can offer technical solutions by shredding stubble, incorporating it into the soil as mulch, and seeding the next crop through this mulch. This not only reduces cultivation expenses but also significantly diminishes greenhouse gas emissions.

Creating Value from Crop Residues

Crop residues have multiple potential applications, including utilization as livestock feed or as a source of renewable energy. Establishing power plants or industries that utilize biomass as raw material could repurpose these residues effectively. Creating markets for crop residues through subsidies or incentive programs in different sectors can encourage their utilization.

Mobilizing Resources

To accelerate efforts, public-private partnerships should be leveraged to mobilize more resources, investment, and funding. However, despite their potential, administrative priorities have not given sufficient attention to this issue.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Establishing monitoring systems is crucial to track the effectiveness of strategies and policies implemented. Real-time data and observations can help refine approaches and ensure that crop residue burning is effectively reduced.

Source: Dawn