Key Takeaways:
- AgriCapture received the first large-scale issuance of CO2e carbon credits from the U.S. rice industry.
- Climate Action Reserve issued the credits under the Soil Enrichment Protocol.
- These credits were generated from regenerative agriculture practices that conserve water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane.
- AgriCapture’s efforts support American farmers and promote sustainable farming practices.
- The project covered 455 rice fields across Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, and Texas, saving over 9 billion gallons of water.
AgriCapture, a leading certifier of climate-friendly farming practices and generator of high-integrity agricultural emissions reduction credits, has announced the receipt of the first large-scale issuance of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) carbon credits from the rice industry in the United States. These credits were issued by Climate Action Reserve, a global carbon registry recognized for its rigorous issuing process, under the Soil Enrichment Protocol.
Pioneering Regenerative Agriculture
AgriCapture generates these high-quality reduction credits through the implementation and in-house monitoring of economically viable and sustainable agriculture solutions. The credits are sold to companies seeking to offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, reduce water usage, and support American farmers. This recent issuance was achieved through regenerative agriculture practices on farms across the United States, focusing on rice cultivation methods that conserve water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane (CH4).
Addressing Methane Emissions in Rice Cultivation
Methane, a byproduct of conventional rice production, has a global warming potential (GWP) approximately 81 times more potent than CO2 over a 20-year period. The credits represent the equivalent of 37,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions reduced thanks to climate-smart agriculture practices that address both CO2 and CH4 emissions. These practices demonstrate a significant step forward in sustainable rice farming.
“AgriCapture is committed to revolutionizing the agricultural industry by encouraging and incentivizing sustainable farming practices that improve efficiency and productivity,” said Tyler Hull, president of AgriCapture. “By creating the highest quality carbon credits, we are building a financial instrument to transition U.S. farming to low carbon intensity practices.”
High-Quality Carbon Credits and Support for Farmers
AgriCapture’s ability to collect field-specific data, quantify environmental benefits, and accurately report on emissions reductions guarantees the high quality and integrity of the carbon credits. This initiative not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also supports American farmers by making farming a more financially viable profession.
“U.S. rice farmers are leading the charge toward a sustainable future with innovative irrigation methods and other methane and water-reducing techniques that don’t impact yield. AgriCapture’s method to incentivize sustainable practices has the potential to transform traditional rice farming in the United States and beyond,” said Peter Bachmann, president and chief executive officer of USA Rice Federation.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The rice production associated with this credit issuance involved 455 rice fields across Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, and Texas. These practices also saved over 9 billion gallons of water, providing additional environmental and economic benefits for farmers and purchasers. This effort helps make the production of rice, one of the world’s most water-intensive and consumed crops, more climate-friendly.
Image provided by AgriCapture
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