Organics in Cambodia – SRI (System Rice Intensification)

Proofing Details

• 27th July 2024
• Location: Cambodia

Cambodia – SRI (System Rice Intensification)

In Cambodia, we worked in partnership with CEDAC (the Centre d’Etude et de Développement Agricole Cambodgien / Cambodian Center for Study and Development in Agriculture). Established 16 years ago, CEDAC is changing lives by teaching skills and sharing knowledge with rural farmers based on ecological principles.

All of the farms were SRI (System Rice Intensification) and farmers were interviewed about the positive social and economic impact of this type of ecological farming technique. This science-based system manages the plants, soil, water and nutrients to improve yields, without using chemicals. By doing so, it promotes ecological biodiversity and keeps vital nutrients in the soil. Many farmers now see a solution to protecting their land, their families and they want the freedom to farm the ‘right’ way.

Farmers that were interviewed confirmed that their yields were much higher than when they used chemicals. They also spoke about being able to sell their organic rice for a higher price which gave them a better livelihood and a brighter future. Farmers were enthusiastic to express that this meant that they could send all of their children to school (and some even to university for the first time). There are also regular meetings for organic farmers where they can meet, share skills and support others in the community that have interest in adopting SRI.