As we know, Thailand is one of the world’s largest rice exporters. But did you know that behind this agricultural economic success lies a growing global concern: methane (CH₄) emissions from rice paddies? According to the National Innovation Agency, traditional rice cultivation especially continuously flooded paddies—keeps fields submerged throughout the rice growth period. Under oxygen-deprived soil conditions, certain microorganisms produce methane (CH₄),4a greenhouse gas 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Research indicates that rice cultivation contributes up to 12% of global methane emissions, highlighting why agriculture directly impacts global warming. This article will explore these questions and provide answers along the way. 

Get to know the keygreenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, which include:

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) 
• Methane (CH₄) 
• Nitrous oxide (N₂O) 
• Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) 
• Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
• Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆)
• Nitrogen trifluoride (NF₃)

Read more: What are greenhouse gases? Impacts of(greenhouse gases)

Understanding why “rice paddies” emit methane.

Traditional rice cultivation in Thailand, which commonly uses (flooded rice paddies) ideal for certain microorganisms that decompose organic matter in the soil, such as rice straw or manure, releasing methane gas. This is especially pronounced after plowing in the rice stubble and continuously adding water to the fields. Microorganisms called Methanogens break down carbon in these oxygen-free conditions, producing methane that rises into the atmosphere.

According to the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning , in 2023, rice cultivation accounted for over 50% of all methane emissions from Thailand’s agricultural sector, equivalent to several million tons of carbon dioxide.

 Reasons for managing methane emissions in Thailand’s agricultural sector.

• Thailand’s agricultural sector emits a significant amount of greenhouse gases, accounting for 16% of the country’s total emissions. Of this, 51% comes from rice cultivation, and traditional flooded rice paddies contribute up to 80% of the methane emissions. Therefore, it is urgent to adjust production practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 
• Thailand has set targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris Agreement, including reducing methane emissions from the agricultural sector.
• Global market demands are changing, with many trading partners increasingly prioritizing sustainable, low-emission food production, particularly in the European Union and the United States, which could become future trade requirements.
• Future production costs, if emissions are not controlled, may lead to carbon taxes or trade barriers imposed by other countries.

Challenges in reducing methane emissions from rice paddies: a crucial step toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly Thai agricultural sector.

How can methane emissions from rice paddies be reduced? 

Currently, researchers, government agencies, and Thai farmers are collaborating on several approaches to reduce methane emissions in rice cultivation without affecting yields, such as:

1.Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) rice cultivation.

This method involves managing water by periodically flooding the fields instead of keeping them continuously submerged. It increases oxygen levels in the soil, reduces anaerobic conditions, and lowers methane production by microorganisms. This approach can reduce methane emissions by up to 30% while also conserving water.

2. Proper use of rice straw.

Plowing fresh rice straw into the soil immediately, without allowing it to dry, can increase methane production by microorganisms. The recommended approach is to let the straw dry first or use it for composting or making bio-fermented liquid, which also helps enrich the soil with organic matter. 

3.Appropriate fertilizer management.

Manure and certain organic materials serve as food for methane-producing microorganisms. Using fertilizers in appropriate amounts and combining them with chemical fertilizers can help control greenhouse gas emissions, allow rice plants to utilize nutrients efficiently, and reduce nutrient losses into the atmosphere. 

4.Promote organic rice farming.

Some farmers are shifting to organic rice farming, which focuses on restoring soil ecosystems, reducing chemical use, and implementing systematic water management, resulting in long-term reductions in methane emissions. 

Expert insights from FDI on new opportunities in the global market.

Trends in the low-carbon rice market.

Current trends in international trade are clearly seen in the European Union (EU), which emphasizes reducing greenhouse gas emissions through measures like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), a carbon tax applied before goods cross borders. One opportunity for Thailand is low-carbon rice, which focuses on reducing methane emissions and being environmentally friendly. Rice-exporting countries are beginning to adapt and improve their practices to meet current demands. Low-carbon rice is not only a better choice for the environment but also a new economic opportunity that Thailand can fully leverage. With proper support and development, Thailand has the potential to become a global leader in the low-carbon rice market, promoting long-term sustainability in both economic and environmental aspects. 

FDI Accounting & Advisory,  as an environmental and sustainability consultant, is ready to support any business with environmental and sustainability goals aligned with ours. environmental and sustainability goals similar to our own. We provide consulting services for business operations, organizational and product carbon footprint assessments, and carbon credit projects, under frameworks that are goal-driven and comprehensive across all dimensions. Our services aim to align with government policies as well as the organization’s objectives, helping businesses transform their systems for genuine environmental, social, and sustainable impact.

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