Innovative Biochar Production from Grasses: A Laudable Solution to Bushfires and Soil Fertility– Isaac Kofi Ntori
Mr. Isaac Kofi Ntori, a project officer with A-Rocha Ghana, has commended the innovative idea of producing biochar from grasses, describing it as “very laudable”. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a stakeholder’s dialogue meeting organized by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies in Tamale on Monday, July 8, 2024, Mr. Ntori highlighted the potential of grass biochar production to address two major challenges in the northern region of Ghana: bushfires and soil fertility. According to Mr. Ntori, grasses are a major cause of bushfires, which pose a significant threat to the landscape, agricultural farms, and properties. However, by harvesting these grasses and converting them into biochar, the soil structure and fertility can be enhanced, leading to increased productivity and reduced bushfires. He emphasized that this innovation has multiple benefits, including reduced carbon emissions, increased forest cover, and enhanced environmental and agricultural security. Mr. Ntori believes that this approach has great prospects, particularly in the agricultural sector, and encourages stakeholders to embrace this innovative solution. He believes, by converting grasses into biochar, Ghana can reduce the risk of bushfires, improve soil fertility, and promote sustainable agriculture practices. This laudable innovation he said has the potential to transform the agricultural landscape in Ghana and ensure a more secure and sustainable future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Grass Biochar: The Sustainable Solution to Soil Degradation and Food Insecurity–Bilal Taimako
Mr. Bilal Taimako Shamsudeen , a representative from the Edugha Institute for Social Development (EISD) and founder of Taimako Plants and Herbal Centre, has emphasized the importance of adopting grass biochar as a sustainable solution to reclaim lost nutrients in soil and promote food security. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a stakeholder’s dialogue meeting organized by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies in Tamale on Monday, July 8, 2024, Mr. Taimako stressed that chemical fertilizers have destroyed lands and the environment, and that grass biochar is the way forward. He expressed his excitement about the conversation around biochar, stating that it is a necessary step to save the environment and ensure food security. According to him, grass biochar solves several environmental issues, including pollution, bush burning, and soil degradation, while also providing employment opportunities, especially for women. Mr. Taimako emphasized that the impact of biochar on food security, health, and education is enormous, and that it is essential to move beyond talk and into action. He encouraged stakeholders to embrace biochar as a better alternative to inorganic fertilizers, which have negative impacts on soil and the environment. “We don’t have a choice; we need to adopt biochar to save our environment and ensure food security,” he emphasized. “Let’s get to work and make a positive impact on our soil, food, and communities.” The meeting aimed to bring together stakeholders to discuss alternative approaches to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. Mr. Taimako’s call to action on grass biochar adoption is a significant step towards promoting sustainable practices and ensuring a food-secure future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Prof. Felix Y. T. Longi Advocates for Grass Biochar Adoption in Ghana
Associate Professor Felix Y. T. Longi, a social historian at the University of Development Studies, has thrown his weight behind the promotion of grass biochar as a sustainable alternative to traditional charcoal. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a regional stakeholders’ dialogue organized by the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies on Monday, July 8, 2024 in Tamale , Prof. Longi emphasized the enormous benefits of grass biochar, including environmental protection, climate change mitigation, and improved agricultural production. He envisioned a future where a consortium of like-minded individuals would come together to organize a national or international conference to share research findings and best practices on grass biochar. By adopting grass biochar, Ghana can reduce its reliance on fuel wood and chemical fertilizers, which have harmful environmental and health impacts. Prof. Longi also pointed the importance of decolonizing knowledge production and promoting indigenous knowledge systems. He believes that by embracing grass biochar and organic manure, Ghana can break free from the shackles of colonialism and develop a more sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural sector. The historian emphasized that the time has come for Ghana to take steps towards self-reliance and environmental sustainability, citing examples of other countries that have successfully made the transition. He urged stakeholders to support the grass biochar initiative, which he believes has the potential to transform Ghana’s agricultural landscape. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
GhaFFaP President Advocates for Sustainable Practices and Grass Biochar Application
The National President of the Ghana Federation of Forest and Farm Producers (GhaFFaP) and a leader for Savannah Women Farmer Association (SWFA), Madam Alima Sagito Saeed, has stressed the need for sustainable practices and the application of grass biochar to improve soil fertility and promote environmentally conscious farming methods. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a stakeholders’ dialogue in Tamale, Madam Alima highlighted the federation’s goal of ensuring its members achieve the best possible outcomes from their investments in land and farming practices. She noted that soil fertility has become a significant issue affecting farmers but emphasized that alternatives like grass biochar can provide opportunities for improvement. The GhaFFaP president further emphasized the importance of adopting environmentally conscious practices to ensure sustainability and highlighted the federation’s efforts to restore sustainable practices and promote knowledge management over the past four years. According to Madam Alima, the federation has collaborated with the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies, a research and knowledge management institution, to produce sustainable products and promote sustainability awareness. The stakeholders’ dialogue brought together state institutions, community development organizations, and partners to discuss alternative approaches to restoring forests, lands, and livelihoods. Madam Alima stressed the importance of adding value to grassroots initiatives and promoting sustainable practices to ensure a sustainable future for farming communities. She believes, the application of grass biochar, as introduced by the Millar Institute, is seen as a key solution to improving soil fertility and promoting sustainable farming practices. “By adopting this approach, farmers can improve their yields, reduce environmental degradation, and contribute to sustainable agriculture practices in Ghana”. She stressed Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Grass Biochar: Project Supervisor Advocates for Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Dr. Maxwell Tengolzor Ba-an, the Charcoal Briquette and BioChar Project Supervisor at Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS), recently spoke at a regional workshop in Bolgatanga, emphasizing the importance of biochar in sustainable agriculture. Apexnewsgh reports The workshop brought together stakeholders from various organizations to discuss policies and strategies for climate change mitigation, sustainability, and agriculture. Dr. Ba-an highlighted the benefits of biochar, a product made from grass, which can be used as a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. He explained that biochar improves soil fertility, structure, and water-holding capacity, making it an effective tool for environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation. The project, which has received funding for two years, aims to train women in rural communities to produce biochar and use it to improve their crops. Dr. Ba-an emphasized that biochar is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for rural farmers, unlike chemical fertilizers which are expensive and harmful to the soil. The project has already seen success in the Northern region, where five men’s groups have been trained to produce biochar. Dr. Ba-an expressed his hope for the project to influence national policies and promote sustainable agriculture practices. In his role as field supervisor, Dr. Ba-an oversees the training of women in the production and use of biochar. He emphasized the importance of empowering women in agriculture and promoting sustainable practices to protect the environment and mitigate climate change. The biochar project is a step towards achieving sustainable agriculture and environmental sustainability in Ghana. With its potential to improve soil fertility, reduce chemical fertilizer use, and mitigate climate change, biochar is an innovative solution for rural farmers and a promising tool for sustainable development. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Grass BioChar is extremely important for soil regeneration and fertility–Abena Offen-Gyimah
Abena Offen-Gyimah of THE BEELA PROJECT has hailed Prof. David Millar’s BioChar innovation as a timely solution for farmers struggling with soil regeneration and fertility in the context of climate change. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking after a regional workshop in Bolgatanga, she emphasized the importance of supporting farmers in adopting sustainable practices. “BioChar is extremely important for soil regeneration and fertility, and it’s essential to support farmers in finding ways to regenerate soil health with minimal chemical inputs,” she said. “I think this initiative is excellent, and I’m excited to see its implementation across various communities in the Upper East.” Abena stressed the need for demonstrations and awareness campaigns to educate farmers on the benefits of BioChar, particularly in utilizing grass that would otherwise be burned or buried. She believes that government adoption and policy support are crucial for long-term sustainability and encouraging farmers to adopt BioChar practices. “To make it sustainable, government needs to adopt a policy on BioChar, support farmers who use it, and reward them for their efforts,” she said. “Incorporating local governance and traditional leaders in the implementation process will also be essential.” The BioChar innovation has the potential to transform agriculture in Ghana, and with government support, it could become a game-changer for farmers struggling with climate change. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062
Locally Sourced Grass Biochar Offers Sustainable Solution for Soil Fertility–Prof. David Millar
Professor Millar, President of the Millar Institute for Transdisciplinary and Development Studies (MITDS), has highlighted the significance of grass biochar in improving soil fertility, particularly in rural areas. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a regional workshop in Bolgatanga, Prof. Millar emphasized that the resources required for biochar production are readily available at the local level, unlike chemical fertilizers. The MITDS, in collaboration with Ghana Federation of Forest and Farm (GhaFFap)/ Forest and Farm Facilities(FFF) is implementing three major projects: grass paper production, charcoal production, and tree planting for reforestation and water conservation. While paper production requires industrial-scale investment, charcoal and biochar production can be done at the community level, empowering farmers to take ownership of their soil fertility. Prof. Millar stressed that a ten-year funding commitment for these projects could lead to a significant environmental impact in the northern region of the country. By charring grass, farmers can create natural fertilizer, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and the risk of bush fires. This approach also promotes natural regeneration and carbon sequestration, with calculated benefits. Cost-benefit analyses have shown that using biochar is more economical than chemical fertilizers, and the resources required are readily available to farmers at little to no cost. This sustainable solution has the potential to improve livelihoods and mitigate environmental degradation and climate change. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
BioChar Innovation: A Game-Changer for Kessena Nankana West District–NADMO Director
Mr. Asoriya Albert, District NADMO Director of Kessena Nankana West, has embraced the BioChar innovation as a revolutionary solution for his community’s development. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a recent workshop organized by the Millar Institute in Bolgatanga, he expressed his enthusiasm for the technology, which converts waste materials into valuable resources. “This program is telling me to use my own waste material to make myself better and my people better,” he said. “I’m interested in learning the technology of making BioChar, and I believe I can make money from it.” Mr. Albert highlighted the challenges his district faces with bushfires and grass burning, which pose a significant threat to their livelihoods. He expressed his gratitude to the Millar Institute for introducing this innovation, which he believes will help his community convert waste into a valuable resource, reducing the risk of fires and generating income. “This knowledge is worth more than money,” he emphasized. “I’m willing to learn and adopt this technology to improve my life and the lives of my people.” The BioChar innovation has the potential to transform the Kessena Nankana West District, providing a sustainable solution for waste management, income generation, and environmental protection. With enthusiastic leaders like Mr. Albert on board, the future looks bright for this community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
Grass Biochar: Community Resource Management Executive Secretary Lauds Prof. Miller’s Biochar Innovation
Mr. Pwamebam Frank, Executive Secretary of Community Resource Management, has praised Prof. Miller’s biochar innovation, hailing it as a game-changer for the region. Apexnewsgh reports Speaking at a regional stakeholder workshop organized by the Millar Institute in Bolgatanga, Upper East regional capital, Mr. Frank noted that the innovation will significantly reduce the costs of chemical fertilizers, leading to improved health and economic benefits for the community. Economic and Environmental Benefits Mr. Frank highlighted the numerous benefits of biochar, including reduced chemical consumption, improved health, and increased food sovereignty. He also noted that the innovation will help protect the environment by reducing deforestation and pollution in water bodies. Empowering Communities Mr. Frank encouraged the adoption of biochar, citing its potential to improve education and livelihoods. He emphasized that the innovation is demand-driven and can be easily adopted by farmers, leading to increased yields and reduced costs. Call to Action Mr. Frank urged the Institute and Prof. David Millar to continue researching and promoting biochar, exploring its diverse uses, including biochar powder for tea and other products. He expressed his gratitude for the innovation and its potential to bring economic benefits to individuals and the community. In summary, Mr. Pwamebam Frank has lauded Prof. Millar’s biochar innovation as a revolutionary solution for sustainable agriculture, economic growth, and environmental protection in the Upper East region and beyond. Source: Apexnewsgh.com Thanks for reading from Apexnewsgh as a news publishing website from Ghana. We encourage you to freely share this story via social media platform and follow us on; Facebook on APEXNEWSGH-Tv or Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0248250270/0256336062.
MITDS Organizes Field Training and Demonstration Conference 1 for Grass Charcoal Producers
Millar Institute for Development Studies (MITDS) recently organized a field training and demonstration conference for stakeholders involved in grass charcoal production in various communities in the northern parts of Ghana. The program, named Field Training and Demonstration Conference 1, aimed to share experiences, success stories, and future plans related to the training provided for the grass charcoal production or briquette under a grant from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The initiative to utilize grass and other organic materials for charcoal production and the construction of Eco-stoves began in 2014 with a vision to create a positive impact on the environment and society. The goal was to encourage communities and stakeholders in the charcoal business to shift from tree-based fuels to grass charcoal production. This transition was seen as a way to reduce deforestation, combat climate change, provide employment opportunities, address bush burning, and improve animal grazing practices. The project has successfully trained a total of 466 individuals in communities across the Talensi, Nabdam, Bolga-East District, Kassena-Nankana West District, Lawra District, Nandom District, and Sagnarigu District. The training focused on utilizing materials such as grass, rice husk, groundnut leaves and shells, corn cobs and stalks, coconut pulp and shells, sawdust, paper, and other organic materials for charcoal production. By providing training and promoting the use of grass charcoal production, MITDS aims to create job opportunities, reduce environmental degradation, and contribute to sustainable development in the northern part of Ghana. The success of the project is attributed to the abundance of raw materials and scalable technology available in the region. However, in a recent Field Training and Demonstration Conference organized by the Miller Institute for Development Studies (MITDS) in Ghana, participants shared their experiences and success stories in the grass charcoal production industry. Dr. Maxwell Tengolzor Ba–an, in his presentation, highlighted the Institute’s addition of tree planting, grass guarding development, and other components to the grass charcoal innovation. This initiative aims to not only promote sustainable energy practices but also contribute to environmental conservation efforts in the region. He said, an essential aspect of the program is its focus on engaging members of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program and schools in grass charcoal field training. By encouraging wider participation from these groups, MITDS aims to spread awareness about the benefits of grass charcoal production and promote environmental sustainability on a global scale. Participants who attended the conference expressed their enthusiasm for grass charcoal production, highlighting its potential to safeguard the environment for future generations. Their testimonies underscore the importance of community involvement and education in driving sustainable practices and creating a positive impact on the world. As the grass charcoal production program continues to gain traction in the northern region of Ghana, MITDS remains committed to fostering a culture of innovation, conservation, and sustainable development. Through collaborative efforts and shared knowledge, stakeholders are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future for all. Source: Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen Please contact Apexnewsgh.com on email apexnewsgh@gmail.com for your credible news publications. Contact: 0256336062