Algerian-Canadian Natural Fertilizer Development Project: The First of Its Kind at the National Level

Le mardi 20 février 2024, en soirée, the Rector of the University of Blida 1 presided over the closing ceremonies of the Algerian-Canadian Natural Fertilizer Development Project. This project is the first of its kind at the national level and is the result of a collaboration between the University of Blida 1 and the Center for Applied Chemical Studies of Quebec in Canada.

Un projet pionnier pour promouvoir une agriculture durable

Launched in 2019, the project aims to develop ecological organic fertilizers using endogenous mycorrhizal fungi. The goal is to improve the quality and quantity of agricultural production, strengthen food security, and develop an alternative to chemical fertilizers that are harmful to public health.

Des résultats positifs prometteurs

The project has shown great effectiveness of the new natural fertilizers, with “very positive” results and an increase in productivity, especially during the dry season. Fertilizer samples were distributed to farmers in coordination with the Chamber of Agriculture and tested on various crops such as citrus fruits, legumes, and cereals. The results showed the farmers’ satisfaction with the experiment, which contributed to faster plant growth. For example, potato plants treated with the mushrooms grew faster than those fertilized chemically.

Approbation officielle et commercialisation

The product, named “BIOPAME7”, obtained approval from the Ministry of Agriculture on December 18, 2023, as well as official certification from the Ministry of Agriculture.

In parallel, a subsidiary of the University of Blida 1 was created under the name “Mycorrhizae” for the manufacture and marketing of natural fertilizers. This contributes to the promotion of sustainable agriculture in Algeria.