As the staple crop for over half the world’s population, rice plays a crucial role in food security, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. However, traditional farming methods contribute significantly to methane emissions—a greenhouse gas that’s nearly 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide—and demand vast amounts of freshwater. With the world’s rice consumption on the rise, the need for sustainable agricultural practices has never been more urgent.
Enter Mitti Labs, a startup determined to revolutionize rice farming. Cofounded by Harvard Business School graduates Xavier Laguarta and Devdut Dalal, Mitti Labs has secured $3 million in equity investment to implement cutting-edge technology aimed at reducing methane emissions by 50% and water usage by 30%. Utilizing high-resolution satellite imagery and on-ground gas measurement techniques, the New York City-based company has chosen India as its primary market, where it aims to make a significant impact on local rice production practices.
Laguarta and Dalal’s journey began during their MBA studies, driven by their shared passion for sustainability and agriculture. With India being the world’s second-largest rice producer, the country faces severe climate challenges that threaten the livelihoods of its farmers. The startup’s initial projects will pave the way for future expansion, with plans to enter markets in Bangladesh, Thailand, and Vietnam by 2025.
Mitti Labs isn’t alone in its mission; other startups, like RTP Global-backed Varaha, are also focused on sustainable farming in India. However, Laguarta emphasizes Mitti Labs' unique approach: “We want to be the best in rice farming,” he says, highlighting the importance of specialized solutions for specific crops.With their first funding round co-led by Lightspeed and Voyager, along with backing from Harvard Innovation Labs, Mitti Labs is poised to reshape the future of rice cultivation. By leveraging innovative technology and local partnerships, the startup is not just aiming to improve rice farming practices but also to set a precedent for sustainable agriculture worldwide.
