Islamabad: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a series of initiatives in Pakistan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, starting with a pilot project in the districts of Sheikhupura and Okara, Punjab. The pilot study focuses on improving water productivity in rice farming through innovative methods aimed at cutting emissions.
One of the key strategies being tested is the alternative wetting and drying (AWD) method for rice paddies. This technique reduces water usage and significantly lowers methane emissions, which are a major contributor to climate change. The ADB is working closely with the Pakistani government to implement this project as part of the country’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the Global Methane Pledge.
“Rice cultivation in Pakistan has a significant environmental impact, but with the right methods, we can reduce emissions while increasing productivity,” said an ADB spokesperson. Over the past decade, Pakistan’s rice exports have grown by 95%, reaching $3 billion, making it crucial to adopt more sustainable farming practices.
The initiative is also part of a larger regional program called ‘Glaciers to Farms,’ aimed at addressing the impacts of accelerated glacial melt due to climate change. This program, which includes Pakistan and several Central Asian countries, focuses on promoting sustainable water use and securing food resources in the face of climate threats.
The ADB’s work in Pakistan is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s agricultural future, helping farmers reduce their environmental footprint while boosting water efficiency. The ADB’s efforts align with its broader goal of promoting sustainable development and supporting countries in achieving their climate targets.
As Pakistan moves forward with these efforts, the ADB is optimistic that this collaboration will pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future for agriculture in the region.
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