India's irrigated paddy fields are a major global source of methane emissions, contributing significantly to climate change
A study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) reveals that India's irrigated paddy fields are among the world's top methane sources, contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. The study, published in Environmental Research Letters, estimates that India's rice cultivation emitted 70.04 megatonnes of methane annually between 2002-2022, accounting for 12.4% of global methane emissions from rice. The emissions are primarily from paddy fields in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Punjab. The study highlights the need for sustainable agricultural practices, such as alternate wetting and drying and direct seeded rice, to mitigate these emissions and achieve India's climate goals.
Key Points
- India's irrigated paddy fields are identified as a significant global source of methane emissions.
- A CEEW study estimates India's rice cultivation emitted 70.04 megatonnes of methane annually between 2002-2022.
- This accounts for 12.4% of global methane emissions from rice, with major contributions from Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Punjab.
- The study emphasizes the need for sustainable agricultural practices like alternate wetting and drying and direct seeded rice to reduce emissions.
Exam Facts
- Study by Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW).
- Published in Environmental Research Letters.
- India's rice cultivation emitted 70.04 megatonnes of methane annually (2002-2022).
- This accounts for 12.4% of global methane emissions from rice.
- Top emitting states: Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab.
Read it. Retain it. Recall it.
Get spaced-repetition flashcards, daily quizzes and offline access — free on Android.