“Technology Catalog Contributing to Production Potential and Sustainability in the Asia-Monsoon Region” was developed under the Green Asia project launched in 2022. As a flagship product, it includes over forty scalable technologies developed in Japan or through international partnerships. The catalog was incorporated into the ASEAN-Japan MIDORI Cooperation Plan and has attracted significant interest.

To promote adoption, it is essential to conduct surveys and share results on the effectiveness of these technologies in specific countries. Two technologies considered closest to social implementation-cashew nutshell liquid feeding (CNSL) and maintaining fermented rice noodles in acidic conditions-were selected for pilot studies in the Asia-Monsoon region.

CNSL is expected to reduce enteric methane emissions from beef cattle by 20–23% in Thailand and 19–22% in Vietnam. Furthermore, even when considering total enteric fermentation, it is estimated that feeding CNSL to beef cattle could reduce enteric methane emissions by 14–17% in Thailand and 10–11% in Vietnam. This pilot study identified limitations and constraints in estimating the methane emission reduction ratio for Thailand and Vietnam, especially regarding available datasets. Further studies are required to improve the accuracy of the estimates.

Despite its potential, CNSL has not yet been commercially available in ASEAN countries. Regulatory approval by relevant government authorities is necessary to ensure its safety and effectiveness, and the establishment of a reliable supply chain by the private sector remains essential. In addition, the introduction of a carbon credit scheme could provide economic incentives for livestock industries.

Fermented rice noodles (FRN) are usually kept at ambient temperature and resist spoilage for a few days due to their acidic nature from rice fermentation. Refrigeration is discouraged, as it damages their texture through starch retrogradation. However, severe liquefaction sometimes occurs before market sales. The technology for maintaining an acidic condition to prevent the liquefaction of FRN could reduce food loss by 0.1-8.7% in Thailand and 10.1-12.7% in Vietnam, respectively. This study confirmed the issue in both Thailand and Vietnam, emphasizing the need for pH control. To prevent liquefaction and ensure product stability, it is advisable for public or industry bodies to publish technical guidelines.

By conducting pilot studies to measure the impact of applying technologies in local contexts as demonstrated in the study of CNSL and by identifying existing challenges through on-site investigations for FRN, it becomes possible to evaluate the significance of implementing technologies listed in the Technology Catalog. Similar assessments are strongly recommended for other scalable technologies included in the catalog particularly in supporting climate change mitigation and promoting sustainable development in the Asia-Monsoon region.