The Smart Chamber technology for methane monitoring has been deployed at UNALM, Peru. Researchers assessed field variability using satellite data, trained local scientists, and engaged 100 farmers in a workshop.
In an innovative step for greenhouse gas (GHG) monitoring in agriculture, the project "Satellite Monitoring of Methane in Latin American Rice Regions" has taken a significant leap forward. After initial trials in the United States, the Smart Chamber technology has now been deployed at the Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina (UNALM) in Peru. This milestone marks a crucial phase in the project's expansion, bringing cutting-edge methane measurement techniques to Latin American rice fields.
To ensure the effectiveness of this deployment, researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand conducted an extensive assessment of the experimental field's variability using five years of satellite data. This analysis allowed them to strategically identify 32 sampling points that will now be monitored weekly, providing crucial insights into methane emissions from rice cultivation.
A team of researchers from the University of Otago traveled to Peru to train scientists at UNALM in the operation and application of this advanced equipment. This hands-on training ensures that local experts can efficiently use the Smart Chamber technology to capture and analyze GHG fluxes in real-time. The system’s ability to integrate auxiliary data, such as soil moisture and temperature, further enhances its value for comprehensive environmental assessments.
Beyond academic collaboration, the project also engaged directly with the farming community. A workshop was organized with approximately 100 rice farmers, where they were introduced to this groundbreaking technology for methane measurement. The session also raised awareness about the opportunities for implementing mitigation strategies and accessing carbon credits. Farmers expressed great enthusiasm about these prospects, recognizing the potential benefits for both sustainability and economic growth.
The expansion of this project into Peru represents a crucial step in democratizing access to GHG monitoring tools. By leveraging satellite data, georeferenced sampling, and real-time analysis, the initiative is equipping farmers, researchers, and policymakers with the knowledge needed to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. The integration of Smart Chamber technology into rice ecosystems across Latin America will not only enhance methane monitoring but also pave the way for climate-smart agriculture in the region.
