Mitti Labs aims to make rice farming less harmful to the climate, starting in India

Rice production is a livelihood for millions across Asia but traditional cultivation methods contribute significantly to global warming through methane emissions. Mitti Labs, a climate-tech startup, is working with farmers in India to adopt greener practices that can help limit these emissions by 50%.

Founded by Harvard graduates in 2023, Mitti Labs aims to improve sustainability in one of the world’s most crucial crops. Their scientists developed solutions using satellite imagery and on-field sensors to measure outputs and guide farmers. Launching initiatives across key rice belts, they partner skilled local groups to introduce techniques like optimized water management.

Early collaborations cover 30,000 hectares, forecast to curb 120,000 tons of CO2 per year. Mitti Labs aspires to assist over 40,000 smallholders, boosting incomes up to 30% additionally through carbon credits. While change takes convincing, consistent advising earns farmer confidence. Ongoing tests with leading researchers validate reliable emissions calculations.

Headquartered in New York with an India office, Mitti Labs picked the subcontinent as global #2 producer impacted by rising temperatures. Founders witnessed agriculture’s climate challenges and sustainability potential during their studies. Chief Science Officer Nathan Torbick and team continue refining remote evaluation and on-site sampling to expand oversight.

Looking ahead, 10 further tasks ready future outreach across Southeast Asia too. As a dedicated rice specialist, Mitti Labs aims to establish emission-cutting standards and reward growers’ climate-friendly roles through worldwide market access. With determination and ingenuity, they empower agriculture’s answer to changing skies.