| Abstract |
This study proposes the development of a dual-purpose desalination and seaweed processing plant powered by solar energy to produce nutrient-rich seaweed liquid fertiliser (SLF) and biochar soil conditioner. This sustainable system simultaneously extracts nutrients from seaweed and desalinated water while creating a carbon-enriched soil amendment, enhancing energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. A multi-stage approach was employed to evaluate the system's effectiveness. First, solar energy facilitated simultaneous saltwater evaporation and nutrient extraction from seaweed. The resulting SLF was tested on salt-tolerant crops, including tomatoes, using varying concentrations to monitor germination rates, growth, and biomass yield. Biochar was produced from the seaweed residue, applied to impoverished soils, and its impact on crop productivity was compared against control groups. Careful consideration was given to seaweed selection, prioritizing species abundant in Irish waters: Ascophyllum nodosum, Saccorhiza polyschides, and Sargassum. Each was chosen for its unique characteristics, including biomass availability and potential use in agriculture. Preliminary findings demonstrate the viability of the proposed system in producing enriched SLF and biochar, improving plant growth and soil fertility. The dual-purpose plant offers a promising approach to sustainable agriculture, leveraging renewable energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Its scalable design makes it adaptable for global use, particularly in regions with poor soil quality and water scarcity, potentially supporting local economies and mitigating global warming.
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