UOS And DAVAS Prime Establish Research Partnership To Enhance Glauconite For Sustainable Agriculture

A research collaboration has been established between the University of Sharjah and DAVAS Prime Middle East Manufacturing. This partnership, supported by Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University, focuses on improving glauconite's role as a soil enhancer in desert climates. The aim is to promote sustainable farming practices across the Gulf region, the Middle East, and North Africa by integrating glauconite with biochar and biostimulants.

The agreement was signed at the University campus by Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, and Ms. Marina Strogonova, Founder and CEO of DAVAS Prime Middle East Manufacturing. This partnership will advance joint applied research projects centering on improving desert soils' properties and increasing their productivity through strategic application and refinement of glauconite.

The research will proceed in two phases. Initially, controlled greenhouse experiments will determine the best mix of glauconite, biochar, and biostimulants for growing wheat and lettuce. Following this, field trials will be conducted at a wheat farm in Sharjah's Mleiha region to test these amendments under real agricultural conditions.

Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy stated, "This agreement is emblematic of the University of Sharjah's unwavering commitment to supporting impactful scientific research that addresses pressing regional challenges, particularly in the domain of sustainable agriculture within the context of arid conditions."

The anticipated outcomes include improved soil fertility, higher crop yields, better water use efficiency, and a more robust soil microbial ecosystem. These advancements are expected to facilitate wider adoption of sustainable agricultural practices over time in arid and semi-arid regions.

Prof. Al Naimiy also highlighted that this project offers a significant opportunity to leverage expertise from both academia and industry to develop agricultural technologies tailored to local environments. This initiative aims to enhance food security throughout the United Arab Emirates and beyond.

With inputs from WAM