Our
doctoral researcher, Zannatul Ferdous, represented our research group
at the EGU General Assembly 2025 with a poster presentation titled “The
effects of nutrient-loaded biochar on biological nitrogen fixation in
faba beans” (link to the abstract is here). This is the first time in
the boreal region that the effect of nutrient-activated biochar and fertilisers on faba
beans has been investigated and we see some interesting patterns. A follow-up greenhouse pot experiment will
be conducted this summer. This is a part of Zannatul’s doctoral thesis,
where she is investigating how nutrient-loaded biochars affect soil
biota and nitrogen use efficiency by improving retention and reducing
losses in boreal soils. This project was supported by the Niemi
Foundation and Maa- ja Vesitekniikan Tuki, but also Tiina and Antti Herlin foundation.
We
are grateful to the experts who guided this project to reach the stage
of disseminating Dr. Kristiina Karhu, Dr. Frederick Stoddard, and Dr.
Priit Tammeorg. Additionally, thanks to fellow colleagues Samuel Amoah,
Karel Bartoš, Faiza Binte Enam for their cooperation. Special thanks to
the Doctoral School of the University of Helsinki for awarding a travel
grant to support Zannatul’s participation in EGU 2025!
