Advancing Sustainable Water Use and Land Management

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In the world of academia and research, few endeavours are as promising and crucial as those that seek to address critical issues related to our environment and resources.

Exploring options through the prism of research at UKZN’s College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science (CAES) will form the focus of the 2023 Postgraduate Research and Innovation Symposium (PRIS), hosted at Coastlands Hotel in Durban on 2 and 3 November under the overarching theme: Water for Sustainability into the 21^st Century.

Two young master’s degree students, Mr Gary Denton and Mr Ayanda Shandu are among the 51 postgraduates from the School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences (SAEES) who have submitted their research abstracts for this year’s symposium.

Denton’s research aims to illuminate the complex water use and water productivity of Cannabis sativa, particularly the variant known as hemp. Hemp cultivation holds promise for various applications, including fibre, seed, oil, and medicinal uses. However, its reputation as a water-intensive crop has raised concerns, particularly in regions like South Africa, where water resources are precious and require careful management.

Denton’s study employed an eddy covariance system in an open-field hemp trial to measure key environmental variables and water use. Preliminary findings provide insights into hemp’s water requirements and water productivity.

Denton’s research holds great significance because as water scarcity continues to be a pressing concern globally, understanding the water needs of crops like hemp is vital. This knowledge will not only inform policies and regulations governing water allocation but also guide sustainable farming practices. Farmers can optimise their irrigation strategies, reducing water wastage and contributing to water conservation efforts. Denton’s work lays a foundation for future research into hemp cultivation and water usage, further promoting environmentally responsible practices in agriculture.

Shandu’s research tackles a multifaceted challenge - recycling disposable nappies and enhancing soil quality using biochar from the invasive species Acacia mearnsii. His work focuses on transforming degraded lands in the upper uMkhomazi catchment into productive resources by utilising these sustainable practices to produce Napier fodder.

The implications of Shandu’s research are far-reaching. By repurposing disposable nappies and biochar as soil amendments, he not only mitigates the accumulation of non-biodegradable waste but also enriches soil productivity.

Shandu’s research addresses numerous environmental concerns, including the reduction of landfill waste, mitigation of water pollution, and the prevention of harmful environmental and health impacts. Moreover, his work promotes a culture of responsible nappy disposal, raising awareness about the importance of sustainable waste management practices.

Research conducted by students such as Denton, Shandu and others exemplifies the commitment of postgraduate students in the SAEES at the UKZN College of Agriculture, Engineering, and Science to tackle pressing environmental challenges head-on. As they prepare to present their findings at PRIS 2023, their work will add depth to our understanding of these complex issues and offer practical solutions that can pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Words: Siphesihle Owen Shezi

Photographs: Supplied