Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.3, 145-157 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 150 Figure 2 A comparison of water-saving rice production methods (Adopted from Mallareddy et al., 2023) 5.3 Case study of direct-seeded rice (DSR) Direct-seeded rice (DSR) is a method where seeds are sown directly into the field, eliminating the need for transplanting. This method is gaining popularity due to its labor-saving benefits and potential for water conservation. However, studies have shown mixed results regarding its environmental impact. For instance, a study in southeast China found that DSR systems had 25% higher cumulative CH4 emissions compared to traditional transplanting systems, primarily due to higher gross ecosystem productivity and rice plant density (Li et al., 2019). On the other hand, DSR has been shown to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions in some regions, such as Karnataka, India, where it demonstrated higher energy use efficiency and lower on-farm emissions compared to puddled transplanted rice (PTR) (Basavalingaiah et al., 2020). 5.4 Case study of organic rice farming Organic rice farming emphasizes the use of natural inputs and sustainable practices to enhance soil health and reduce environmental impact (Figure 3). This method avoids synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, relying instead on organic matter and biological pest control. Research has shown that organic rice farming can improve soil nutrient dynamics and reduce chemical residues in the environment (Gamaralalage et al., 2021). Additionally, organic practices can enhance biodiversity and natural enemy populations, contributing to pest management and ecosystem health (Katti and Ch, 2022). However, organic farming may face challenges such as lower yields and nutrient deficiencies, which need to be addressed through careful management (Hazra et al., 2021). The research of system of Sarkar et al. (2020) highlights the numerous benefits of crop residue retention for enhancing soil fertility and health. By maintaining crop residues on the soil surface, better moisture conservation is achieved, reducing the need for additional irrigation. This practice also moderates soil temperature, creating a more stable environment for plant growth. Crop residue retention minimizes soil erosion by inhibiting runoff, which helps maintain soil structure and composition. Additionally, it results in lower greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural practice. Beneath the surface, retained residues improve soil aggregation and hydraulic conductivity, facilitating better water infiltration and root growth. The presence of
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