Key Impact Points:
- 43% increase in rice production in Roi Et and 10% in Central Plain through climate-smart farming.
- Water use reduced by 56% in Roi Et and 41% in Central Plain, mitigating climate change impacts.
- 1,450 farmers trained, 70% of whom are women, in sustainable rice farming techniques under the Sustainable Aromatic Rice Initiative (SARI).
Mars’ Commitment to Sustainable Rice Farming
Mars is a proud sponsor of the ‘In Focus’ Zones at SOIL: The World at Our Feet, an exhibition at Somerset House running through April 13. The exhibition highlights the importance of soil to human life and planetary health. As part of this initiative, Mars is showcasing its efforts to make rice farming more sustainable through climate-smart agriculture.
The Urgency for Change
Rice is a staple for 3.5 billion people and a key economic driver for 19% of the world’s population. However, traditional rice farming consumes 40% of global irrigation water and generates up to 10% of global methane emissions. With rising climate threats, Mars is working with farmers to cut water use, lower emissions, and secure future food supplies.
Sustainable Aromatic Rice Initiative (SARI)
Launched in 2018 in partnership with the German agency GIZ, SARI trains Thai farmers on the Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) standard, covering:
- Digital farming solutions and record-keeping
- Water-efficient techniques like alternate wetting and drying
- Optimized use of fertilizers and inputs
Real Impact on Farmers
Over six years, 1,450 farmers—70% of them women—have adopted climate-smart rice practices in Thailand’s Roi Et and Central Plain provinces. The program has led to:
- 43% higher yields in Roi Et and 10% in Central Plain
- Water savings of 56% in Roi Et and 41% in Central Plain
Rice farmer Jularak shared: “With the income from increasing yields, I can support my children with better health and education. My dream is to inspire more women to contribute to the agriculture sector.”
With the success of SARI, Mars is now scaling the program across Thailand to drive broader industry transformation in rice farming.
