Brian Jeffrey
Conference Highlights Green Low-Emission Rice Initiative
The Dak Lak Department of Agriculture and Rural Development recently hosted a conference to evaluate a pilot program focused on low-emission rice cultivation and improved yields for the 2023-2024 winter-spring crop season.
Carbon Purchase Announcement
During the conference, Net Zero Carbon revealed it has acquired 17 tons of CO2 reductions from the rice farming efforts of local farmers in Binh Hoa commune, Krong Ana district. Each ton of carbon reduction was purchased for $20.
Understanding the Carbon Reduction Initiative
It’s important to note that this transaction does not constitute a carbon credit sale, as the emission reductions are acknowledged solely by Net Zero Carbon. The purchase aims to promote and incentivize farmers to engage in low-emission rice farming practices.
Significant Milestone for Vietnam
This marks the first successful sale of carbon emission reductions related to rice cultivation in Vietnam, stemming from the pilot initiative aimed at enhancing sustainable farming and yield in Dak Lak. The price per ton sold is notably higher than the carbon credits offered by the World Bank for similar projects in the Mekong Delta focused on developing a million hectares of quality low-emission specialized rice.
Implementation of Low-Emission Farming
The pilot program in Binh Hoa commune involved farmers adhering to a strict irrigation technique known as alternate wet and dry irrigation, established by the International Rice Research Institute (IRR). They also engaged in a carbon reduction verification process set by Net Zero Carbon JSC.
Positive Outcomes Observed
After a three-month trial period, the initiative has shown promising results. Farmers reported an increase of one ton per hectare in rice yield, a 10 percent decrease in investment costs, and a 20 percent increase in profits compared to traditional practices.
Environmental Benefits and Future Plans
This new method not only shifts farmers from conventional practices but also helps minimize farmland pollution. Experts noted that this innovative approach led to a reduction of 17 tons of greenhouse gas emissions, significantly benefiting the environment. The rice produced is recognized as being ‘cleaner’ and ‘safer’.
Expanding the Initiative
Encouraged by these initial successes, the provincial agriculture department plans to expand this cultivation method to cover 500 hectares of rice across Dak Lak in the upcoming 2024-2025 winter-spring crop. This aligns with Vietnam’s goals to lower agricultural emissions.
Leadership Perspectives
Nguyen Van Ha, deputy director of the Dak Lak Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized that the successful trade of carbon reductions from green rice farming in Binh Hoa commune sets a vital foundation for advancing sustainable rice cultivation in the region.
