Aiming to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Increase Rice Yield

SORA Technology Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Nagoya, Aichi, Japan; Founder & CEO: Yosuke Kaneko) has developed a new technology utilizing drones (UAVs) and AI to measure midseason drainage periods in paddy fields. This technology aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Japan and enhance rice yields in Africa, contributing to the sustainability of agriculture.

Precise Measurement of Midseason Drainage for Sustainable Agriculture

The technology employs fixed-wing and multicopter drones equipped with multispectral cameras to measure the water content in paddy fields with high accuracy. AI-based analysis enables the precise management of midseason drainage on a daily basis.

In Japan: Focus on Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Midseason drainage helps suppress methane gas emissions and can be utilized in the J-Credit Scheme※. SORA Technology’s innovation provides a quantitative method for certifying midseason drainage periods, reducing the burden on farmers.

In Africa: Aiming to Increase Rice Yields
With rapid population growth raising concerns over food shortages, efficient water management is becoming essential for African agriculture. By applying this technology, optimized irrigation management can enhance rice productivity and contribute to food security.

Key Benefits

• Precise Water Management: AI-driven quantitative analysis enables optimized midseason drainage.
• Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Japan): Suppresses methane gas emissions, with potential utilization in the J-Credit Scheme.
• Increased Rice Yields (Africa): Optimized water management helps mitigate the risk of food shortages.
• Improved Efficiency: Drone-based analysis covers large areas in a short time compared to traditional visual inspections.

※J-Credit Scheme: A carbon credit program promoted by the Japanese government. It certifies the reduction of CO₂ emissions achieved through energy conservation and renewable energy adoption, allowing organizations to trade credits with other entities.

Future Outlook

SORA Technology is conducting demonstration experiments in Iwamizawa, Hokkaido, and African agricultural regions to accelerate the social implementation of this technology.

About SORA Technology Co., Ltd.

SORA Technology utilizes drone and AI technology to address global challenges in climate change and public health. In addition to agriculture, the company applies its solutions to infectious disease prevention and disaster response, contributing to the creation of a more sustainable society.