Jizoku Starts Joint Research with Niigata University and Can Tho University

Launching Rice Cultivation Trials to Reduce Fertilizer Use, Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Implement Carbon Credit Schemes

Tokyo-based Jizoku Inc. (CEO: Keiichiro Kataoka, hereinafter “Jizoku”) has started a joint research with Niigata University (Japan) and Can Tho University (Vietnam), and has already initiated field trials. The project focuses on rice cultivation, aiming to reduce chemical fertilizer application while cutting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and maintaining stable yields and grain quality. The results will be leveraged to enable practical social implementation through the generation of carbon credits.

Background

Agriculture is one of the major sources of GHG emissions, with nitrous oxide (N₂O) from fertilizer use posing a significant challenge in rice cultivation. While reducing fertilizer use can lower emissions, it often raises concerns about adverse impacts on yield and quality. Developing scientifically validated practices that achieve both sustainability and productivity is therefore a global priority.

Jizoku has been working on carbon credit generation from agriculture and the dissemination of environmentally friendly farming technologies. This joint research represents a crucial step in transforming academic knowledge into practical, field-level solutions with real-world impact.

Research Details

The collaborative research covers rice paddies in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam, with three core objectives:

• Quantifying GHG reduction effects from modified fertilizer application
• Developing fertilizer reduction practices that maintain yield and quality
• Verifying MRV (Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) methods for future carbon credit issuance

Future Outlook

This research will establish practical fertilizer management techniques that enable farmers to reduce emissions without sacrificing profitability. Furthermore, the results will be integrated into carbon credit schemes, creating a model for implementing agricultural GHG reductions as a viable business framework both domestically and internationally.