09.10.2023
ZALF researchers recently partnered with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (College of Agriculture and Food Science) to conduct a workshop with local farmers in Laguna, Philippines last September 25, 2023. This collaborative effort was the culmination of an 18-month field trial focused on the reuse of pineapple residue through soil incorporation as part of a project called rePRISING.
The event was attended by eleven pineapple farmers, local agricultural officials and university staff. It served as a platform to share the findings of the extensive research from the project and the benefits of reusing pineapple residue. The ZALF researchers demonstrated that it not only reduces waste, but also enriches soil quality, increases crop yields and promotes nutrient cycling.
The workshop also provided an interactive forum where the researchers opened the floor to farmers to ask questions or express concerns about adopting this method as a farming practice. The research team used this opportunity to gain additional insight into other concerns the farmers have with pineapple farming, and to further explore how ZALF research can help them.
The collaboration between ZALF and the University of the Philippines Los Baños embodies the spirit of knowledge sharing and community empowerment. It is a testament to the positive impact that research, community engagement, and sustainable agricultural practices can have when they come together with a shared vision.
