The organizers included the South Central coastal agricultural science and technology institute, Gia Lai’s Department of Agriculture and Environment, and green carbon Japan Vietnam Co., Ltd.
The workshop, held in Quy Nhon Bac Ward, reviewed 2025 project results and discussed expansion plans for 2026.
The initiative is part of the “alternate wetting and drying irrigation technology in rice cultivation adapted to climate change in Gia Lai,” funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) through green carbon Japan Vietnam Co., Ltd.
AWD, developed by the international rice research institute (IRRI) in 2003, has been applied globally and is now showing strong potential in Vietnam. In Gia Lai, the model was piloted on 10.4 hectares in Quy Nhơn Đông Ward. Early findings indicate water savings of up to 4,400 cubic meters per crop, fewer irrigations, and stable rice growth.
Crucially, greenhouse gas emissions were cut dramatically. Total CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) emissions dropped to 1.95 tons per hectare per crop, around 70% lower than traditional methods at 6.47 tons.
Despite weather-related challenges limiting reductions, experts emphasized the model’s role in cutting costs, boosting climate resilience, and supporting Vietnam’s emission reduction goals.
Stakeholders at the event assessed pilot outcomes, exchanged experiences, and discussed scaling the model in eastern Gia Lai and beyond.
Plans include investment in emission monitoring systems, development of internationally certified carbon credit documentation, and mobilization of climate finance.
“Alternate wetting and drying irrigation is not only a technical advancement but also a strategic pathway toward smart, green, and sustainable agriculture in Gia Lai,” said Phan Tiến Thành, business development manager at green carbon Japan Vietnam Co., Ltd.
He added that the model could help establish a “low-emission rice” brand for domestic and global markets, paving the way to participate in the international carbon credit market.
