Netherlands achieves first large-scale rice harvest to combat soil subsidence

The Netherlands has successfully completed its first large-scale rice harvest in the Oud Ade polder. This pilot project, conducted on 0.6 hectares by the Land van Ons cooperative in collaboration with researchers from Wageningen University and Leiden University, aims to use rice cultivation as a sustainable method to combat peat soil degradation.

As groundwater levels drop due to drainage and evaporation, peat soils dry out, leading to land subsidence and massive CO2 emissions. Researchers note that these emissions can be comparable to those of millions of cars annually. By growing ‘wet crops’ like rice, farmers can maintain higher water levels in the soil, effectively halting subsidence and reducing carbon release.

The current harvest is expected to yield between 1,200 and 1,500 kilograms of net rice after processing. The project tested approximately 30 different cultivars from regions including China, Japan, Russia, and Uzbekistan to determine suitability for the Dutch climate. The produce is intended for local consumption through nearby restaurants.