Researchers in Abu Dhabi have developed "artificial soil" in the lab that is similar to the real one needed to produce crops.
Dr Saeed Alkhazraji, an Emirati researcher with Kevin Halique at Khalifa University for Science and Technology said they have seen promising results after trying to turn sand into fertile soil.
The developed version resembles real soil in countries like Thailand and Ukraine.
This can help farmers grow a variety of different crops in arid conditions.
“The soil is tailored to any specific texture and porosity to emulate some of the well-known fertile soils,” said Dr Alkhazraji, an associate professor at the university.
A patent for the discovery has been registered by the university.
However, there is no date when the lab produced soil will be available in the local market.
“The artificial soil developed by our faculty reflects our commitment to focus on research that remains relevant to the region and drive innovation in areas that benefit not only the UAE and the region but the entire world,” said Dr Arif Sultan Al Hammadi, executive vice-president of the university.
The artificial soil is expected to help boost agricultural produce in the country, which supports the National Food Security Strategy.
“[It] specifically aims to implement resilient agricultural practices that increase productivity and production”, said Dr Al Hammadi.
“We believe this type of research will help and support not only the country’s agriculture sector but may also benefit those countries with arid regions that lack a suitable farming environment.”
Farmers in the UAE face challenging environmental conditions, which includes scarcity of water, saline soil, high production costs, pests and post-harvest losses, said the university in a press statement.
Dr Alkhazraji was the first recipient of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal of Scientific Excellence in 2017.
He has also been awarded the Sheikh Rashid Award for Scientific Achievement twice (2008 and 2012).
