Agrometeorology and Environmental Footprint of Rice Cultivation presents a holistic and timely analysis of rice production at the intersection of climate science, environmental sustainability, and modern agriculture. Recognizing rice as both a climate-sensitive crop and a contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, the book critically examines the complex interactions between paddy ecosystems, atmospheric processes, and natural resources.
The volume explores the agrometeorological principles governing rice growth and productivity, while offering an in-depth assessment of environmental impacts such as methane and nitrous oxide emissions, nutrient runoff, pesticide leaching, and their effects on soil and water quality. It further highlights the ecological dimensions of rice landscapes, including biodiversity conservation and water regulation functions.
Moving beyond problem identification, the book emphasizes practical and forward-looking solutions. It discusses climate-smart agronomic practices, precision agriculture tools, digital technologies, and advances in breeding climate-resilient rice varieties. Socio-economic challenges, policy support, and extension mechanisms influencing the adoption of sustainable practices are also critically addressed.
Designed for researchers, students, policymakers, and development professionals, this book serves as an essential reference for advancing environmentally responsible and climate-resilient rice cultivation systems.
Prabhjyot-Kaur: MSc; PhD; FAAM, Principal Scientist (Agrometeorology), PAU, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Surender Singh: MSc; PhD; FAAM, Professor/Principal Scientist (Agrometeorology), CCS HAU, Hisar, Haryana, India
V Uma Maheswara Rao: MSc; PGDIAS; PhD; FAAM, Former Project Coordinator - AICRP on Agrometeorology, ICAR-CRIDA, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
BV Ramana Rao: MSc Tech; FAAM, Founder Project Coordinator - AICRP on Agrometeorology, ICAR-CRIDA, Hyderabad, Telangana, India..
Chapter 01. The Global Imperative: Rice, Water, and Environment
Chapter 02. Rice Physiology and Phenology: A Meteorological Perspective
Chapter 03. Climate and Weather Systems Affecting Rice Production
Chapter 04. The Rice Paddy Hydrosphere: Water Balance and Traditional Practices
Chapter 05. Unpacking Water Wastage: Causes and Consequences
Chapter 06. Agrometeorological Tools for Water-Use Efficiency in Rice Cultivation
Chapter 07. Water-Saving Technologies: Innovations in Rice Cultivation
Chapter 08. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Rice's Atmospheric Footprint
Chapter 09. Mitigating the Environmental Footprint: Strategies and Technologies
Chapter 10. Environmental Services and Biodiversity in Rice Landscapes
Chapter 11. Socio-Economic Dimensions and Policy Drivers for Change
Chapter 12. Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience in Rice Systems
Chapter 13. Emerging Technologies on the Future of Rice Agrometeorology
Chapter 14. Charting the Path to a Water-Wise Rice Future