A breakthrough in sustainable agriculture

A long-standing collaboration between University of Cape Town (UCT) researchers in the Molecular and Cell Biology
and Chemistry Departments has led to a breakthrough in sustainable agriculture, one that represents a significant stride in green chemistry and sustainable agriculture, showcasing African excellence that holds global promise and addresses key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UCT has always been at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation. One of the ways in which the university encourages research and innovation is through fostering a culture of collaboration and multidisciplinary partnerships.

This spirit of pioneering and transdisciplinary research brought together Assoc Prof Anwar Jardine, Head of the Department of Chemistry; Assoc Prof Suhail Rafudeen, Head of the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology; and Dr Naadirah Moola, who conducted the breakthrough research as part of her joint PhD programme with UCT and Belgium’s Ghent University.

Prof Jardine, a leader in the field of complex organic carbon polymer chemistry, developed a novel green chemistry process to improve the solubility of chitosan, a natural biopolymer derived from chitin, which is abundantly found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans and insects, particularly in black soldier fly larvae. The abundance of chitosan and its source from a renewable and sustainable supply chain aligns perfectly with the principles of the circular economy. This innovative process not only enhances the solubility of chitosan but also paves the way for its broader application in various industries, notably agriculture.

Dr Moola, under the joint supervision of Prof Jardine and Prof Rafudeen, demonstrated the antifungal, antimicrobial and plant bio-stimulation properties of a simple formulation of the diamino chitosan. Her research data confirmed the potential of this formulation to revolutionise agricultural practices. By reducing reliance on chemical pesticides through its use as a foliar spray, this innovation addresses key SDGs, including ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’ and ‘Life on Land’.

The team’s work exemplifies how African-led research can contribute to global challenges, offering sustainable solutions that can be adopted worldwide. The formulation not only promises to enhance food production by stimulating plant growth but also ensures a safer and more sustainable approach to crop protection.

The journey from lab to field was supported by RC&I, which provided the team with small grants and facilitated industry engagements to explore the commercialisation potential of their work. The research results underscore the value of academic-industry partnerships in translating research into practical applications. Profs Jardine and Rafudeen led engagements with industry players along the agrichemical value chain, from black soldier fly producers to potential end-users such as multinational chemical companies, farmers, specialised packaging companies, and post-harvest processing companies.

This research showcases how homegrown solutions can address global issues, reinforcing UCT’s commitment to fostering research that transcends borders and benefits the world.