Climate Change Mitigation in Rice Farming Should Account for Biodiversity

Abstract

Climate change mitigation and biodiversity loss are closely linked challenges, yet agricultural strategies often address them separately. Focusing on rice farming, this article shows that widely promoted water-saving practices can reduce greenhouse gas emissions but may also harm freshwater biodiversity that depends on flooded fields. We highlight alternative management approaches and the need for spatially and seasonally targeted strategies that balance climate goals, biodiversity conservation, and food production.