A team of scientists from the Swedish University of Agrarian Sciences has developed a new variety of rice capable of producing more than double the global average, while significantly reduces methane emissions. Researchers estimate that this innovation may contribute to a more sustainable and efficient production with a reduced environmental impact.
Impressive results in production and sustainability
Scientists have analyzed two varieties of rice: Nipponbare, a Japanese culture known for its average methane emissions, and Susiba2, a genetically modified version to minimize the release of this gas. Through the tests, it was found that Susiba2 was able to reduce methane emissions to 70%, a value considered highly significant, given the relevance of this greenhouse gas in global warming.
In addition, the new variety demonstrated a higher productive income, reaching more than eight tons per hectare, contrasting with current averages that are in substantially lower values.
Johannes Coure, a researcher at the University of New South Wales, highlights a relevant point of the study: “The key point of the study is that they do not use genetic engineering or editing technologies, but traditional crosses to create new rice strains that reduce to methane synthesis. ”
Environmental and future impact of rice cultivation
Rice cultivation is one of the major responsible for methane emissions, representing about 12% of the total global of this gas. With a 25 -time heating potential than carbon dioxide, methane is a central concern for scientists who study the impact of agricultural crops on the environment.
The new variety developed emerges as a promising alternative to make rice production more sustainable, ensuring greater profitability for farmers while reducing the environmental impact of the activity, as explained.
According to the researchers, Super Rice will be able to hit the market soon, becoming a viable solution to face the challenges of agricultural production and climate change.
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