GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM RICE CULTIVATION IN THE MAJOR RICE PRODUCING COUNTRIES: EXTENT AND ASSOCIATED TRADE-OFF
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Date
2023-09-01
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G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263145
Abstract
The thesis titled "GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM RICE CULTIVATION IN THE MAJOR RICE
PRODUCING COUNTRIES: EXTENT AND ASSOCIATED TRADE-OFF" delves into an extensive exploration of the
intricate relationship between rice production, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and international trade in the world's key
rice-producing nations. The study not only elucidates the findings but also offers significant conclusions and policy
implications derived from the research.
In a world where food security is paramount for the burgeoning global population, rice stands out as a crucial
staple crop. However, the dynamics of rice cultivation, trade, and their environmental impacts present complex challenges.
This thesis seeks to unravel these intricacies, beginning with an examination of the pivotal role rice plays in the agricultural
landscape and the wider economy. It underscores the multifaceted factors, including climate change, economic conditions,
population growth, global trade, and evolving agricultural practices, that influence food patterns across the globe.
Despite modern advancements in agriculture, the specter of food security looms large, encompassing not just
food availability but also affordability and accessibility. The far-reaching consequences of food insecurity are stark,
affecting individuals and societies in myriad ways, from malnutrition and cognitive development to social disparities,
reduced productivity, mental health issues, educational difficulties, and environmental degradation. Central to this study is
the revelation that agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with
methane emissions during rice cultivation being a pressing concern.
The global rise in population will inevitably lead to an increased demand for rice, which, if not managed
judiciously, can exacerbate GHG emissions. As such, the thesis advocates for a dual focus—enhancing rice production to
meet growing demand while minimizing the environmental footprint. It recognizes that technological advancements in rice
cultivation are necessary to achieve this delicate balance.
The research is carried out across ten major rice-producing countries: China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh,
Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Pakistan, and Brazil. The study meticulously evaluates key parameters such as
agricultural GDP, the share of rice value in agricultural GDP, rice production, productivity, trade, GHG emissions from rice
cultivation, and net rice trade.
The findings across these nations unveil intriguing trends and critical insights. For instance, some countries have
witnessed fluctuations in the contribution of agriculture to GDP and the significance of rice within this sector. Others
exhibit positive trends in rice production parameters, while trade dynamics—exports and imports—also show distinct
patterns. Most significantly, the research delves into the GHG emissions associated with rice production, their proportions
relative to overall agricultural and total emissions, and GHG emissions per unit of rice production.
These findings hold profound implications for policy formulation and environmental stewardship. The thesis
emphasizes the pressing need for addressing GHG emissions from rice cultivation in the global pursuit of net-zero
emissions. It underscores the importance of setting emission reduction targets, considering the environmental trade-offs of
rice trade, and harnessing technological innovations to reduce emissions while sustaining rice production.
In essence, this research offers invaluable insights into the intricate interplay between rice production, trade, and
greenhouse gas emissions, providing guidance for policymakers, international organizations, and stakeholders striving to
navigate the complex nexus of food security and environmental sustainability on a global scale. The conclusions drawn
from this study not only shed light on the extent of emissions but also illuminate the path towards a more sustainable future,
where rice cultivation can coexist harmoniously with the imperative of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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Academic Research