Italian rice sector highlights climate resilience and new varieties

The Italian rice sector is highlighting new technological and cooperative initiatives through upcoming industry events in the Piemonte region.

The Ente Nazionale Risi will host an Open Day on September 8 at the Rice Research Center in Castello d’Agogna. The event will showcase the ‘Fertiriso’ project, which focuses on soil fertility and mitigating environmental issues in rice paddies. Additionally, the center will present new rice varieties developed through genetic improvement and artificial crossing techniques designed to address challenges posed by climate change.

Separately, Confcooperative Agroalimentare e Pesca will participate in the second International Rice Festival (Risò) in Vercelli from September 11 to 13. The cooperative, which represents approximately 150 members with a production value of nearly 15 million euros, aims to address complex industry challenges such as water management, climate change, and market instability. The festival will include seminars discussing the impact of global markets and climate change on the sector.