The primary objective of my PhD work is to enhance the organic carbon content in sugarcane cultivated soils of North Queensland. I will make use of waste products and industrial effluents produced by the sugar industry to develop a sustainable fertiliser. This soil fertiliser or conditioner will be customisable to meet the needs of the farmer. Apart from building soil organic carbon this will also be a useful tool for waste management and a potential circular economy model.

PhD Title: “Carbon storage in soil using agro industry biowaste.”

PhD start date: December 2021

Supervisors: Assoc Prof. Ajay Singh Karakoti, The University of Newcastle, Prof. Nanthi Bolan, The University of Western Australia, Prof. Ajayan Vinu, The University of Newcastle, Dr. Lukas van Zwieten, NSW Department Primary Industries.

What interested you about this research?
I strongly believe that an ideal sustainable system must be economically viable along with being environmentally sound. The project aims to create such a holistic harmony, so it is something I am truly passionate about.

What do you love about soil?
With the many challenges posed by climate change, research in soil science will be a game-changer for the future. Soil is the fundamental platform for all human activities, but it can be an overlooked discipline within the larger environment and earth sciences.

What do you love about your PhD?
Having an opportunity to engage with several distinct stakeholders and having a chance make a direct positive impact on their lives.

How will your PhD help to make a difference for farmers?
Besides improvement in soil fertility, my work will provide farmers with a sustainable alternative to the chemical fertilisers while also providing them with an excellent tool for waste management.

What do you want to do when you finish your PhD? 
I will pursue a research or managerial role in the agriculture or environment sector with a focus on sustainability, waste management and circular economy.

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