• First-phase research confirmed practical pathways to reduce methane emissions in rice production
• Second-phase explores soil health, carbon storage and biochar applications

BASF Agricultural Solutions and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have extended their scientific collaboration named “Optimizing Management for Reduction of Greenhouse Gases in Rice” (“OPTIMA Rice”) to further advance sustainable rice cultivation, targeting reductions of methane and other greenhouse gases. Launched in 2024, the project aims to develop solutions that are practical, economically viable for farmers, and supported by evidence from the field. The multi-year collaboration combines BASF’s expertise in bringing sustainable agricultural practices into real-world farming systems with IRRI’s world-leading rice research.

The first phase of OPTIMA Rice showed that letting rice paddies dry out in controlled intervals, known as Alternate Wetting and Drying, enabled through Direct Seeded Rice, can significantly reduce methane emissions and lower water use without compromising yields (see Global Carbon Field Trial Report 2025). This is especially important for farmers who are considering participating in carbon farming programs, as they would need to adjust how they irrigate rice paddies. In addition, improved straw management can further lower methane emissions.

Read the full article