Climate change is having a profound impact on Japan's rice harvests, with rising temperatures leading to a decrease in both quality and quantity.
Challenges Faced by Aging Farmers
As the population of farmers continues to age, working in extreme heat poses significant challenges, especially as older individuals are more susceptible to heatstroke.
Government Initiatives and the Adoption of Heat-Resistant Varieties
To counter the effects of climate change, government initiatives are encouraging the adoption of heat-resistant rice varieties. The development of new rice strains that can withstand high temperatures is crucial for the future of rice cultivation in Japan.
The Road Ahead: Developing Heat-Resistant Varieties
Experts recommend the introduction of rice variants that are tolerant of temperatures up to 3 degrees Celsius higher by the 2040s. While heat-resistant rice strains offer numerous benefits, convincing farmers to transition from traditional varieties like Koshihikari remains a significant hurdle.