Entrepreneurs turn soil restoration into economic opportunity

Entrepreneurs in several regions are transforming soil restoration into an economic opportunity by combining environmental recovery with profitable agricultural practices. Supported by a United Nations initiative, these ventures utilize technologies such as biochar to improve soil water and nutrient retention, as well as AI-powered sensors in Nigeria and Bangladesh.

In Senegal, Daniel Halman’s company, Féro, implements a model that integrates high-productivity greenhouses with agroforestry systems. This approach allows farmers to produce more food in less space, freeing up land for the planting of fruit trees and native species. By utilizing greenhouse crops that offer short-term returns, the business model addresses the financial challenge of waiting years for trees to mature, making land recovery economically viable for farmers.