New research at Lincoln University in New Zealand suggests bio-waste can be utilised on former pine plantations to generate big economic returns.
Four years of research in a greenhouse environment found the waste, which might include sewage and dairy shed effluent, can be used to rapidly establish native vegetation on former pine forest soils. Early estimates suggest the natives could produce a financial return of over $200 million annually.
“The signs from our greenhouse trials are extremely positive,” associate professor Brett Robinson says.
He says the research team have focused primarily on growing native species such as mānuka and kānuka, which can be used to produce valuable products such as honey and essential oils.
Robinson says his initial findings suggest the use of biowaste can significantly accelerate the growing capability of low-fertility soils by increasing the water and nutrient holding capacity, and providing essential elements.
Field trials are expected to commence soon.
Click here for source (ForestryExpo)
Photo: ForestryExpo
