Agriculture and Environment: Rice

Introduction

There are many different kinds of rice production systems. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the environmental problems associated with each. However, it now appears that some forms of rice cultivation may be far more productive and yet have fewer innate environmental impacts that would need to be addressed.

Since many of these systems are particularly appropriate for smaller producers, they should be investigated and supported not only by those interested in the environment, but also by those interested in food security and poverty reduction.

As with other commodities, it is clear that improved efficiency of input use for rice production can increase yields while reducing costs. There are many ways to improve the efficiency of resource use. These include reducing pesticide and fertilizer use, improving water management, reducing effluents and soil erosion, and improving overall soil management.

Many of these improved practices can also reduce the greenhouse gas emissions associated with rice production. Some of the better practices will, in addition, increase wildlife habitat and perhaps even increase producer income streams, as through the sale of hunting permits.

Finally, it is clear that better practices aimed at optimising certain impacts may in fact contribute negatively to others. Each producer will have to determine which are the most important impacts to be reduced and what are the best ways to accomplish this.