Fellowship Year:
2026
Degree:
MF
Research Country:
Ghana
Research Continent:
Africa
Project Title:
Environmental evaluation of locally sourced biochar for enhancing seedling vigor on mine spoils
Abstract:
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining in Africa has degraded large areas of tropical forest, leaving behind mine spoils with poor soil structure, limited water retention and low nutrient availability that hinder reforestation efforts. This research examines how locally produced biochar, derived from the pyrolysis of organic biomass, can improve nursery growing substrates and enhance the growth and resilience of two vulnerable native timber species, Talbotiella gentii and Terminalia ivorensis. The study aims to develop practical, low-cost nursery recommendations to improve seedling quality and support long-term forest restoration on degraded mining landscapes.