Fertilizer made from local rocks could help feed hungry in Africa
Food insecurity is a major problem in many parts of the world, particularly Africa, where more than 300 million people regularly go hungry. Now, using the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan, researchers from Morocco have developed a way to produce fertilizer from local African rocks, which could make it easier for farmers to grow the crops needed to feed local residents.
Food insecurity affects millions of people in Africa, but local rocks could soon provide a solution. Researchers from Morocco used the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan to develop a method of turning local potassium-rich syenite rocks into a fertilizer. This alternative could help farmers grow crops without relying on expensive and polluting potash fertilizers.
The modified rocks release potassium, calcium, silicon and magnesium, which help plants absorb water, resist disease and boost yields. While tested on corn and soy, the fertilizer showed comparable nutrient uptake to conventional potash fertilizer. However, field tests and cost optimization are needed before large-scale implementation.
The project aims to improve lives in Africa, with the scientist emphasizing the social impact of his work.
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