News | July 10, 2025

CSU Introduces Technology To Farmers For Rice Production And Methane Reduction

How can we help address environmental challenges in farming while enhancing agricultural sustainability in Caraga?

Faculty-researchers from the College of Agriculture and Agri-Industries (CAA), through the Soil Science Division, introduced an efficient way for green carbon credit through the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology to nearby local farmers on July 9, at the HERO Learning Commons. The innovation offers a simple and cost-effective solution to reduce water consumption in rice production, resulting in lower production costs and a substantial reduction in methane emissions from rice paddies.

Dr. Glenn Arthur A. Garcia serves as the Project Leader for this ongoing research. During the activity, the Project Development Manager, Mr. Hamsha Saz of Green Carbon, Inc,. formally introduced and demonstrated the installation and practical application of the AWD system. Although still in its early rollout in Caraga, AWD has already shown strong potential to revolutionize rice farming. It enables up to 30% savings in water use without compromising crop yield and serves as an eco-friendly solution by significantly cutting methane emissions.

Once target farmers commit to adopting the project, AWD will be implemented through a multi-faceted approach focused on practical training, knowledge sharing, and collaborative engagement. Key components include strategic training workshops, onsite demonstrations and installations, methane emission monitoring and data collection, stakeholder consultations, and sustained technical support.

Joining Dr. Garcia in spearheading this breakthrough initiative from CSU are Reuben James C. Rollon, MSc.; Sharyl Mae M. Daverao, MSc.; Leo Jude D. Villasica, MSc.; Angelica L. Labiano, MSc.; Hazel D. Fuertes, MSc.; and Ianil B. Manguruban, MSc.

The university partners with Verde Carbon Capture, Inc., through Green Carbon, Inc., and the City Agriculture Office for the implementation of this project. It is envisioned to improve rice yields and significantly reduce methane emissions across agricultural communities in Butuan City. More than a scientific breakthrough, the project exemplifies CSU’s commitment to serving its local communities and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 13 (Climate Action), 15 (Life on Land), and 17 (Partnership for the Goals).

Source: Caraga State University