Toward a Greener Future: AfricaRice eco-innovations for sustainable rice self-sufficiency in Africa

As Africa strives to nourish its growing population, the challenge extends beyond simply producing more food. It is about producing sustainably. Through its groundbreaking research and field activities, including under the AICCRA project in Mali, Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice) is pioneering climate-smart innovations that boost rice productivity while significantly reducing plastic dependency in both farming and post-harvest processes. This integrated approach enabling raising rice yields while safeguarding the environment is already taking shape across the continent.

Here are four ways AfricaRice is leading transformation in rice production through smart, low-cost, and eco-friendly practices:

Organic mulching: Nature based solution for soil Health

Plastic mulch has often been used to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but it can cause long-term damage through microplastic accumulation. AfricaRice offers a natural alternative—rice straw mulching. Farmers are encouraged to spread leftover straw from previous harvests over their fields. This method helps retain moisture, control weeds, and enhance soil biodiversity without relying on synthetic materials. The result is healthier soils and higher productivity, especially in fragile lowland ecosystems. Farmers’ incomes were increased by 5 – 15% and soil carbon budget by 1.0 – 2.0 t/ha due to the use of rice straw mulching.

Biochar: Turning waste into wealth

In place of synthetic fertilizers that often come in plastic packaging, AfricaRice—through AICCRA project—promotes the use of biochar using on-farm residues like rice husks, straw, and manure. Farmers are trained to produce biochar using local materials. Demonstrations show how to prepare and apply biochar without plastic bags or external inputs. These efforts improve soil fertility, cut costs, support plastic-free, circular farming systems and enhance crops yield. Farmers’ incomes were increased by 10 – 20% and greenhouse gas emission reduced by 20 – 30% due to the use of biochar.

Reusable packaging: Greening the post-harvest chain

Single-use plastic sacks used after harvest often break down quickly and litter the environment. AfricaRice is introducing sustainable packaging alternatives at its community rice processing centers. Durable woven polypropylene and jute sacks are promoted for rice storage and marketing. These reusable options protect rice quality and support a circular economy. This shift is reducing plastic waste while helping farmers access more durable and market-friendly packaging.

Solar drying solutions: Clean energy for clean grain

Traditional drying methods using thin plastic sheets are inefficient and environmentally harmful. AfricaRice is replacing them with solar bubble dryers and reusable tarpaulins made from durable materials. These tools preserve grain quality, reduce losses, and avoid disposable plastics. Combined with practical training, they help farmers improve post-harvest management, cut spoilage, and boost income while protecting natural ecosystems.

AfricaRice demonstrates that it is possible to increase rice production and resilience while minimizing environmental harm. By cutting plastic use across the value chain—from production to packaging—AfricaRice is driving a new model of rice production that is eco-conscious, farmer-friendly, and economically viable. The future of rice in Africa is not only about feeding people—but doing so in a way that is productive, sustainable, and free of plastic waste.

For further information, contact Elliott Dossou-Yovo: e.dossou-yovo@cgiar.org