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Rice fields on terraces in Mu Cang Chai, YenBai, Vietnam.

Reducing Methane Emissions from Rice Fields

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Methane emissions from rice fields contribute to climate change on a scale comparable to the global aviation industry. Current sustainable rice farming practices cannot reduce methane without affecting yields and increasing emissions of other harmful gasses. This project investigates the use of cable bacteria, which function like living electric wires, to keep methane in the soil rather than releasing it into the atmosphere. Researchers will validate the effectiveness of cable bacteria in reducing emissions and develop methods for applying them in real-world conditions.

Project: Bio-stimulation and amendment to mitigate methane emissions from rice production
Funding Source: Realizing Environmental Innovation Program   
Funding Year: 2024
Research Areas: Climate, Natural Capital 
Regions: Global

Research Team:
Scott Fendorf (Earth System Science), 
Anne Dekas (Earth System Science), 
Alison Hoyt (Earth System Science)

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