Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory (TLL) has been awarded the Giving to Amplify Earth Action (GAEA) Award in the Climate, Nature, and Resilience Science category at the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting.
The recognition highlights TLL’s Decarbonising Rice Project, which addresses the dual challenges of climate change and rising global demand for rice.
Led by Drs. Srinivasan Ramachandran, Naweed Naqvi, and Zhong Chao Yin, the project combines over 20 years of research with innovative practices to make rice cultivation more sustainable.
The initiative has achieved significant results, including a 30-50% reduction in methane emissions, 30-50% less water usage, and a 5-10% increase in yields under controlled irrigation.
The project employs climate-resilient rice varieties, advanced soil and water management, and precise methane monitoring in labs across Laos, India, and Indonesia.
“This award validates our collaborative efforts in advancing sustainable agriculture. We are proud to tackle the interconnected challenges of climate change and food security,” said TLL CEO Peter Chia.
Rice cultivation supports half the world’s population, particularly in Asia, but is responsible for 10% of global methane emissions. With demand projected to grow 30% by 2050, traditional practices are increasingly unsustainable.
The project’s success in pilot trials has led to large-scale testing in Asia, empowering smallholder farmers with low-carbon technologies.
TLL’s efforts underscore the potential of science-driven innovation and partnerships in addressing global sustainability challenges.
Business News Asia