Navigating the productivity‐adaptation‐mitigation triangle in climate‐smart agriculture for rice‐based ecosystems

Rice ( Oryza sativa L.) is a staple food for over half of the global population; however, climate change increasingly threatens its production. In this context, climate‐smart agriculture (CSA) offers a strategic approach to enhancing rice productivity, building resilience to climatic stresses, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, achieving these goals often involves navigating complex trade‐offs. Accordingly, this review aims to (i) identify and classify CSA practices in rice‐growing ecosystems; (ii) determine the synergies and trade‐offs among the three pillars of CSA—productivity, adaptation, and mitigation; (iii) identify strategies to maximize synergies and minimize trade‐offs; and (iv) examine the interrelationships between productivity, adaptation, and mitigation outcomes. To address these objectives, a systematic literature review was conducted following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses protocol. Through this process, the review identified 34 CSA practices applicable to rice cultivation. Notably, several practices have demonstrated substantial co‐benefits across productivity, adaptation, and mitigation. Conversely, certain practices, such as direct‐seeded rice, present trade‐offs, particularly between yield and environmental outcomes. These findings underscore the necessity of adopting context‐specific, integrated strategies that combine crop‐, nutrient‐, water‐, and carbon‐smart interventions. Moreover, the dynamic interplay between adaptation and mitigation also emerged as a key determinant of both immediate and long‐term productivity. Overall, this synthesis underscores the critical role of tailored, locally relevant CSA approaches in transforming rice production systems. By strategically managing trade‐offs and amplifying synergies, CSA can support the development of resilient, sustainable, and climate‐responsive rice systems that can withstand future environmental and socio‐economic challenges.