We’re catalyzing megaton-scale climate impact in Brazil

Google and Terradot have announced a groundbreaking climate initiative in Brazil aimed at reducing methane and carbon dioxide emissions from rice farms. The partnership targets a massive 1 million metric tons of methane reduction by 2030 and 1 million metric tons of permanent carbon removal by 2040. This dual-approach strategy leverages irrigation changes and crushed volcanic rock to tackle climate change at both the short and long term.

The project uses Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) to quickly eliminate methane emissions from flooded rice paddies. This technique reduces water usage and cuts costs for farmers while providing an immediate reduction in superpollutant emissions. Simultaneously, Terradot will spread crushed volcanic rock on the same fields. Over time, the rock undergoes Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW), permanently removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

This innovative approach addresses both the immediate and long-term challenges of climate change. By combining superpollutant elimination and carbon removal, the project aims to make significant strides in the next decade while ensuring lasting impact. The partnership underscores the importance of addressing both short-lived superpollutants, like methane, and long-lasting CO2 emissions to limit global temperature rise.

The project's effectiveness is heightened by the natural suitability of southern Brazil's tropical climate and flooded rice systems for this method. Additionally, the project provides economic benefits to local communities, as the reduced water usage and improved soil health can lead to cost savings and enhanced agricultural practices.

This announcement marks Google's largest carbon removal purchase to date, setting a precedent for other buyers, suppliers, and governments to adopt a unified strategy that combines immediate climate action with long-term carbon removal. The partnership with Terradot is poised to become a global blueprint for agricultural climate solutions, demonstrating the transformative potential of this dual-pronged approach in the fight against climate change.