Chapter 4 - Ecological Footprints of and Climate Change Impact on Rice Production in India

Abstract

Continuous flooding of rice fields, along with the intensive use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, has generated vast amounts of externalities, including pollution of rice ecosystems, emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs), and depletion of water and soil nutrients. As well as contributing to climate change through GHG emissions, rice production is itself affected by climate change. In light of the critical environmental challenges facing rice ecosystems, this chapter attempts to undertake a broad-based review and synthesis of the ecological impacts of rice production, including analysis of India’s water footprint and GHG emissions from rice production, as well as the impact of climate change on rice production in India. A plausible set of technological and policy recommendations is also provided to ensure sustainable rice production in this increasingly challenging environment.