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Mars rice farmers host TED Talk on climate impact

Rice is the world's largest food source — however, it's a big emitter of methane gas, a key contributor to climate change – but also with big opportunities to help achieve net zero by 2050.  

Fifth-generation rice farmer Jim Whitaker and his daughter, farmer and conservationist Jessica Whitaker Allen, are working to slash rice's environmental impacts with innovative, sustainable farming practices. They’re also suppliers for our Ben’s Original brand — growing rice that’s not just delicious, it’s climate conscious. 

During their TED(Opens a new window) premier, the father-daughter duo shared how they're keeping their family farm in Arkansas profitable while sharing climate-smart farming practices with their neighbors — and, eventually, the rest of the world.  

"If you take care of the planet, it will take care of you," says Jessica. 

We believe healthy food shouldn’t come at the expense of the planet — and it must be sustainably produced with future generations in mind. We’re committed to making the rice supply chain more sustainable and are working in partnership with our farmers, like the Whitakers, to reduce irrigation water use and minimize greenhouse gas emissions by 50% while increasing yields.  

We’re focused on cutting our greenhouse gas emissions across our value chain — 50% by 2030, aiming to reach net zero by 2050. Learn more about our net zero roadmap at www.mars.com/netzero2050