“EkoClimate” Initiative to Support Sustainable Rice Farming

The EkoClimate initiative aimed to support 42 small-holder rice farmers in adopting Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) techniques across 50 hectares of farmland during this rice season (May–August). AWD is a proven water-saving irrigation technique that allows rice fields to dry intermittently instead of remaining flooded. This approach not only reduces water usage but also cuts methane emissions.

Another technique, Maximum Residue Limit (MRL), was also introduced to the local farmers. By setting pesticide limits, it not only ensures food safety, but also helps farmers reduce costs by 20-30% per season, which reduces waste and preserves crop quality. These approaches minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and increase farmer income through lower production costs while selling rice at premium prices.

“For over 30 years, I’ve grown rice by habit without ever understanding the science behind it,” shared Mr. Huu Tin, a 68-year-old farmer from Tay Ninh. His words reflect the shared reality of many farmers who have long relied on traditional farming methods.

Beyond on-the-ground implementation, EkoClimate fosters community involvement through Community Engagement Workshops. These sessions bring together farmers and their families to raise awareness about sustainable agriculture; gather valuable feedback, and co-create localised climate-resilience solutions. By prioritising dialogue and collaboration, we aim to build a stronger, more resilient agricultural community.

The ultimate goal of EkoClimate is to establish a scalable and replicable model for low-emission, climate-resilient rice farming. With the potential to expand across the Mekong Delta and beyond, this initiative aspires to benefit local communities by promoting sustainable practices that protect the planet and improve livelihoods.