#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Gas #J-Credit #Green Carbon

Visualizing Biodiversity Impacts in Rice Fields

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. has made significant strides in understanding the effects of extended water drying periods in rice paddies on biodiversity. This initiative, aimed at reducing methane emissions—a significant greenhouse gas—has employed environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to assess its impact on local ecosystems. The findings from this research will contribute to the upcoming J-Credits expected to be issued by Green Carbon Co., Ltd. in 2026, representing the environmental value added through this methodology.

Background

The practice of extending the water management period in rice cultivation aims to curb methane emissions, a method that received approval as a J-Credits methodology in 2023. This has led to a growing number of J-Credits transactions related to rice paddies, with expectations that they may represent about 30-40% of the overall J-Credits issued in the near future. You see, in Japanese rice farming, managing water levels is commonplace; however, extending the drying period poses potential risks to the ecosystem. While this practice may significantly reduce methane emissions, it is critical to also understand and mitigate its impacts on biodiversity.

Details of the Research

The research on biodiversity impacts focused on several rice fields across four prefectures where the extended drying period was implemented. Water samples were collected before and after the drying period, which allowed Osaka Gas to analyze the trace genetic information of various organisms such as dragonflies and frogs found in these fields. Through this analysis, researchers evaluated the impacts on biodiversity. Currently, similar assessments are underway in other regions.

By comparing the species present before and after the drying extension, the study offers valuable insights into how ecological information and biodiversity are intertwined. This research can inform prioritization for conservation efforts and evaluate the effectiveness of environmental policies.

Future Initiatives

The biodiversity values made visible through this research will be incorporated into the J-Credit system, which is set to be launched in the spring of 2026. Green Carbon will handle the sales of these credits, enabling customers to engage with J-Credits confidently, fully aware of their environmental implications. Moving forward, Osaka Gas aims for detailed analyses and broader research scopes to provide more tailored information while expanding the value added to J-Credits through biodiversity considerations.

The Daigas Group remains committed to contributing to a carbon-neutral society through innovative technologies and services as part of our "Energy Transition 2050" initiative announced in February 2025. Our goal is to tackle societal issues like climate change while facilitating further advancements in both lifestyle and business sectors.

Company Overview

Osaka Gas Co., Ltd.

• - Headquarters: 4-1-2 Hirano-cho, Chuo-ku, Osaka City
• - CEO: Masataka Fujiwara
• - Founded: April 1897
• - Business Activities: Manufacture and sale of gas, electricity generation and sales, etc.

Green Carbon Co., Ltd.

• - Headquarters: 2-3-2 Kojimachi, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
• - CEO: Jun Okita
• - Founded: February 2019
• - Business Activities: Creation and sales of carbon credits, agricultural and environmental-related services, ESG Consulting, and related activities.