The Potential Impacts of Enhanced Soil Moisture and Soil Fertility on Smallholder Crop Yields in Southern Africa

Titel:	The Potential Impacts of Enhanced Soil Moisture and Soil Fertility on Smallholder Crop Yields in Southern Africa
Kategorie:	Diverses
Detail:	Doctoral Examination Seminar
Datum:	09. März 2011, 10:00 Uhr - 11:00 Uhr
Ort:	Eawag Dübendorf
	Forum Chriesbach C 20
Referenten:	Jafet Andersson, System Analysis, Integrated Assessment and Modelling, Eawag
Leitung:	Dr. Janet Hering, Director, Eawag
Download:	als Kalender-Eintrag

How can the growing human population be fed in a sustainable manner? Efficient management of water and nutrients is increasingly being emphasized because of the high rainfall variability and low soil fertility that constrains smallholder crop growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. In his doctoral project, Jafet Andersson explores the potential of using locally available water and nutrient resources more efficiently with low-cost techniques focussed on fertilization with human urine (Ecosan) and irrigation with locally generated surface runoff (Water Harvesting).

Using a computer simulation tool, the Eawag researcher could identify the most suitable areas and conditions for Water Harvesting and Ecosan technologies in Southern Africa. Nutrients were found to constrain crop growth the most, and hence nutrient enhancements had the highest impact on crop yields (+30%) and transpiration (+3%). Water enhancements were most beneficial in relatively dry areas and for the lowest yields, which improved the stability of the production system throughout Southern Africa. The spatially and temporally resolved information stemming from this project can support policy makers, relief organisations and researchers in the region.