In Asia, nearly 90 percent of the total water used is for agriculture—and irrigated rice is one of the major consumers. It takes 5,000 liters of water to produce one kilogram of rice.

Today, water is still regarded as plentiful, but the per capita availability of water resources is expected to decline by 40-60 percent in most Asian countries over the next 35 years. Agriculture’s share of water will decrease because of stiffer competition from the urban and industrial sectors, which will be able to pay a higher price. Farmers simply will not have abundant water for rice farming.

Will there be enough water to grow rice?

How rice research can help An urgent need exists for researchers and policymakers to deal with the problems of groundwater depletion, pollution, and pricing of irrigation water. New technologies that help conserve rainwater and increase water-use efficiency in rice cultivation are urgently needed. Rice scientists must also develop suitable varieties and appropriate strategies for managing insects, diseases, and weeds in a much drier environment.


Need more facts?

Dr. To Phuc Tuong
Water Engineer
International Rice Research Institute

SWIM
System-Wide Initiative on Water Management

IIMI
International Irrigation Management Institute