Blog and news
A major new book examines the potential for sustainable growth of bioenergy use, potential impacts, and the role of good governance in maximizing benefits and avoiding harm.
The SIANI African Biochar Expert group is in the process of starting a network of researchers and development professionals with experience and interest in biochar. We are interested in getting in touch with ongoing biochar activities in Africa, as well as with people who are interested in information about biochar development in Africa.
The overall aim of the group is to examine how shortages of food and water lead to vulnerability to ill-health, abuse, and exploitation at the local level.
Focali researcher Martin Persson will receive a scholarship award of 100 000 SEK from Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf's 50th Jubilee Fund.
Global Committee on Food Security (CFS) requested the High Level Panel of Experts (HLPE) to analyze the latest evidence-based information on the use of water for food and nutrition and synthesize it into actionable recommendations for public and private sectors as well as for civil society.
Biochar has recently gained attention in scientific and popular media for its potential to sequester carbon and enhance soil fertility (World Bank 2014). There are also opportunities to improve energy efficiency through pyrolytic cookstoves, improve health through reduced indoor air pollution, and reduce drudgery through reduced need for firewood etc.
While the process of defining the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been relatively inclusive and consultative, it has been relatively isolated from national political processes. Few national decision-makers are resourced to follow or act on the fast-emerging agenda, especially in low-income countries.
Manure Knowledge Kiosk (MKK) kicks off its regional activity in 2015, participating in the Dairy Asia meeting, sensitizing policy-makers and key stakeholders in the region whilst building awareness of the benefits of integrated manure management for sustainable livestock.
Most of African agriculture is rain fed and access to other water resources is often very limited. Research and practice show that rainfall variability is becoming higher which increases risks of harvest failure. Moreover, in some areas of sub-Saharan Africa rainfall might even become 25% lower than today.