Extracting Value out of Waste
We are dedicated to extracting value from waste wood material derived from sustainable forest management and agricultural pruning residue. Our approach involves harnessing the carbon capture capabilities of trees and partnering with local project developers to promote regenerative farming practices and the cultivation of biodiverse, productive woody perennial species.
The significance of olive groves and other long-lasting woody perennial plantations cannot be understated. These ecosystems serve as crucial carbon storage reservoirs and are rich in biodiversity. As new biomass grows, carbon is naturally absorbed from the atmosphere, contributing to a CO2 neutral balance in sustainably managed olive grove ecosystems.
Within this context, the pruning of woody perennial crops plays a pivotal role in sustainable management practices. However, the residue generated from yearly or periodic pruning is often wasted by on-site destruction or burning for heat.
To maximise carbon sequestration potential, we implement a different approach. When wood is harvested, it creates space for new plants to grow and absorb more carbon. Instead of allowing the harvested wood to be burned or decay within a few years, we store a portion of it with Terrasink. This effectively removes it from the natural wood cycle, preventing the release of captured carbon into the atmosphere.
Our commitment lies in ensuring the safe and durable storage of wood to prevent decay and carbon re-emission. By implementing this strategy, we enable large-scale, cost-effective carbon dioxide removal, contributing to substantial environmental benefits.
The role of woody perennial ecosystems in carbon storage
Olive groves and woody ecosystems store carbon effectively, offering stability, manageability, and energy efficiency. By harnessing the natural growth of plants, we leverage their carbon capture potential, while providing valuable ecosystem services like watershed protection, air filtration, habitat provision, and recreation.
Recognizing the finite nature of forests, we now prioritize sustainable forest management to ensure continuous timber harvesting without compromising ecosystem integrity. As trees grow, their carbon absorption rates vary, with young trees benefiting from the shelter and protection of older trees. As they mature, they contribute more to annual carbon capture, eventually creating shelter for new growth beneath their canopy.
Carbon storage occurs not only in visible plant parts but also in roots and organic matter within the soil. Clear-cutting forests depletes stored carbon rapidly, highlighting the importance of sustainable forest management. By selectively harvesting trees each year, we allow the forest to regenerate while planting diverse local tree species, fostering resilience against heat, fires, and pests.
A Changing Landscape
The olive groves of Salento, Puglia, have faced significant challenges due to the devastating impact of Xylella fastidiosa. This destructive pathogen has caused widespread damage, leading to the decline and death of olive trees, disrupting the ecosystem and local communities.
In addition to this crisis, monocultures dominated by fast-growing invasive species have contributed to the vulnerability of olive groves and forests worldwide. These monocultures have resulted in the suppression of native flora, reducing biodiversity and creating imbalanced ecosystems. Furthermore, the reliance on a single species leaves the groves susceptible to the spread of diseases, such as Xylella fastidiosa.
The effects caused by Xylella fastidiosa serve as symptoms of underlying issues, including poor soil conditions and the negative consequences of monocultures. These issues weaken the trees' natural defenses and make them more susceptible to diseases and pests. The rapid transmission of Xylella fastidiosa within the olive groves highlights the need for diverse, resilient ecosystems that can better withstand such threats.
To address these challenges, a shift towards mixed forest ecosystems and diversified olive groves is crucial. By embracing a variety of native species and promoting healthy soil conditions, we can enhance the resilience of the olive groves and foster a more balanced and sustainable environment. This approach not only mitigates the risks associated with diseases like Xylella fastidiosa but also provides numerous ecological benefits, such as improved soil health, enhanced biodiversity, and increased ecosystem stability.
Terrasink recognizes the importance of restoring and protecting the olive groves of Salento, Puglia. Through our collaboration with forest owners and agricultural communities, we strive to support the transition towards diverse and resilient agroforestry systems. By implementing sustainable practices and promoting a more balanced approach to land management, we can help combat the effects of Xylella fastidiosa and create healthier, thriving olive groves for future generations.