Combatting Climate Change: A New Horizon for Rice Farming

Rice stands as a critical dietary staple for billions globally and serves as a primary income source for millions. However, climate change is increasingly jeopardizing rice production. Recent reports from the IPCC and FAO predict a potential decline in global rice yields of 10-15% by 2050, with the frequency of climate shocks expected to escalate.

“For billions of people, rice is not just a staple; it is a lifeline. Climate change is placing extraordinary pressure on this vital crop,” explained Dale Creaser, global VP of supply chain at Mars Food & Nutrition.

Mars, the parent company of Ben’s Original, recognizes a dual responsibility: safeguarding farmer livelihoods while securing its rice supply chain. The company has pledged a substantial $20 million investment aimed at fortifying rice farming’s future through the adoption of climate-smart practices, rigorous training, and collaborative industry efforts.

Transformative Practices for Rice Farming

A cornerstone of Mars’ strategy is the implementation of Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD), a technique proven to decrease water use by up to 30% and lower greenhouse gas emissions by over 40%. Unlike conventional methods that keep fields flooded continuously, AWD involves scheduled draining, which mitigates methane emissions while sustaining yields.

The effectiveness of this approach is evident. For instance, the Whitaker family farm in Arkansas reported a 60% reduction in water use and a 60% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions after applying AWD, compared to regional averages.

Scaling Climate-Smart Agriculture Worldwide

Mars’ initiative, known as the Raising Rice Right platform, focuses on four pivotal pillars:

• Scaling Proven Practices: Collaborating with farmers and suppliers to implement AWD and similar climate-smart techniques that lessen environmental impacts while ensuring productivity.
• Training and Support: Equipping farmers with essential tools and knowledge to transition into new practices. In Thailand, partnered with the Sustainable Aromatic Rice Initiative (SARI), Mars has trained 1,400 predominantly female farmers in AWD, boosting yields and minimizing environmental burdens.
• Building Farmer Resilience: Under its Sustainable in a Generation Plan, Mars commits to supporting all farmers at risk of poverty through programs designed for long-term economic stability.
• Driving Industry Collaboration: As a founding member of the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP), Mars facilitates a global alliance aimed at promoting sustainable rice farming and certifying compliance through independent audits.

Financing the Transition

Mars emphasizes that farmers will not shoulder the financial risks alone. The company and its partners will absorb upfront costs through subsidies and incentives, provide premiums over commodity prices, and share data to demonstrate benefits such as increased yields and reduced costs. “Farmers will see advantages over time, including lower input costs and improved agricultural outputs,” remarked a Mars spokesperson.

To quantify impact, rigorous data collection, third-party verification, and evaluation of farmer outcomes are employed. Monitoring includes assessing environmental impacts (like water usage and GHG emissions), agricultural performance via yield changes, and social outcomes, such as farmer participation and improvements in livelihoods.

A Call for Sustainability and Survival

Mars’ $20 million commitment aligns with its overarching sustainability objectives:

• Achieve a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2030
• Reach net zero by 2050
• Enhance the livelihoods of one million individuals throughout its supply chain

By promoting AWD and other climate-smart practices, Mars aims to preserve rice yields, cut emissions, and bolster farmer resilience. As climate-related challenges escalate, these practices could shape the future of rice farming and contribute significantly to global food security.