Rice is one of the most important basic foods on earth. Across Asia, it is not just a diet staple, but a main source of income and employment for farmers.
The harvesting of rice crops in Asia, however, is fraught with challenges. According to current estimates, world population numbers will rise to 9.8 billion people by 2050. This will create an immense strain on already limited resources and land, especially as countries try to ensure food security for its people.
Current agricultural techniques are also inadequate in helping farmers deal with growing threats of climate change. As region continues to face greater intensity of floods, droughts and extreme weather, the farmers and their crops will ultimately suffer. In some cases, these methods and techniques contribute to the problem. Growing rice is water-intensive, and pollutive – with 12 per cent of global greenhouse emissions coming indirectly from current flooding techniques used when growing rice.
On the bright side, solutions are available –from water-efficient rice varieties to new business models to reduce production costs and quality further enhanced. Some critical questions remain though: How will the decarbonisation of rice growing techniques affect yield? Which agro-tech solutions should we choose to scale? Can supply chains remain sustainable and competitive as rice-growing intensifies?
This dialogue “Rethinking Rice” aims to bring together industry experts and technology specialists who can share insights about how smallholder farmers and industrial growers operate and the opportunities abound for rice.
Join us as we explore the environmental and social implications of rice harvesting and chart the outlook for this important crop that is Asia’s main source of sustenance.
Hear from our speakers, including:
- Chris Stevens, Global Procurement Director Asia Pacific, Kellogg’s
- David Chen, COO, Golden Sunland
- Chris Argent, Head of Business Sustainability, APAC, Syngenta
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