Exploring Alternative Wetting and Drying and Carbon Markets for Sustainable Rice Production in Punjab, Pakistan
Alternate Wetting & Drying (AWD) Technology Pilot Study Overview
- Rice is a vital staple and export crop for Punjab, contributing significantly to food security and the national economy.
- Traditional continuous flooding methods result in excessive water usage and contribute approximately 1.5% of global methane emissions, raising environmental concerns.
- Punjab faces severe water scarcity, with per capita water availability dropping from 5300 m³ in 1950 to less than 1000 m³ in 2020, a challenge that climate change is projected to worsen by increasing water demand by 5-15% by 2047.
- Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) reduces water usage by 30%, lowers methane emissions by 30-70%, and maintains rice yields, providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution for rice production (IRRI).
- AWD also provides economic benefits, including opportunities for carbon credits, reduced irrigation costs, and fuel savings, making it a financially viable option for rice farmers.
- In light of these challenges, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), in collaboration with the Directorate of On-Farm Water Management, Punjab, is undertaking a two-year study (2024-2025) titled "Exploring Alternate Wetting and Drying and Carbon Markets for Sustainable Rice Production in Punjab, Pakistan.
The Asian Development Bank, along with national and international collaborators, is supporting a pilot study to explore low carbon rice production techniques in Punjab. The study consists of two experiments:
Experiment 1: Methane and nitrous oxide emissions from continuous flooding, single drainage, and alternate wetting and drying rice production systems in Punjab, Pakistan
Experiment 1 measures GHG emissions and water productivity in the rice-wheat cropping system to develop specific emission factors for various rice cultivation methods. This will also evaluate AWD’s potential in generating financial incentives for farmers through carbon markets.
Experiment 2: Cluster Randomized Controlled Trials for the Adoption of AWD
Experiment 2 focuses training farmers from Sheikhupura and Okara, on safe AWD to reduce water usage and methane emissions without compromising on crop yield. These training are conducted through video presentations, expert interactions, and practical demonstrations.
At the end of the rice season, a survey of trained farmers will be conducted to identify barriers and opportunities for AWD adoption.
AWD Highlights Video
Site Offices
Contact Details:
Name: Dr. Shakeel Ahmed
Role: TA-6663 Project CABI Team Lead
Email: [email protected]
Contact Details:
Name: Dr. Tariq Aziz
Role: Okara Experiment Team Lead
Email: [email protected]