Sustainable management of rice straw in China’s rice-based Cropping Systems
How EDAT supported sustainable waste-to-soil strategies in agriculture
Categories
About the Client
- Heilongjiang Province, Harbin, China
The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) is a national agricultural research institution in China focused on advancing sustainable, climate-resilient farming practices. With multiple regional centers, CAAS plays a critical role in driving agricultural innovation across the country.
Challenge
Rice farmers in Heilongjiang Province generate large volumes of rice straw annually, but cold temperatures and a short growing season prevent its natural decomposition. As a result, open-field burning has become a widespread practice—contributing significantly to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Despite its nutrient potential, rice straw remains underutilized, and there was a critical need to find a sustainable and climate-smart alternative.
Solution
EDAT collaborated with researchers to develop an implementation plan that integrated tillage methods and nitrogen management, aimed at optimizing rice straw incorporation into the soil while reducing synthetic fertilizer use. Three tillage practices were tested to determine the most effective system for enhancing soil quality and minimizing environmental impact.
Outcome
Plough tillage combined with rice straw incorporation emerged as the most effective strategy—enhancing soil fertility, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, and lowering GHG emissions. This approach not only supports sustainable waste management but also aligns with climate action goals under SDG 13, offering a scalable model for rice-producing regions facing similar challenges.
Take the First Step Towards Sustainability
Embarking on your corporate carbon accounting, carbon offset or LCA journey is a significant step towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. Let Enterprise Data Template be your trusted partner in this endeavor. Contact us today to learn more about our carbon management solutions and how we can help your organization achieve its sustainability goals.
