The project is organic, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, utilising locally available biomass resources to reduce production costs. Its extended microbial activity reduces the need for frequent application, making it particularly suitable for smallholders and organic farmers seeking sustainable, low-input agricultural solutions with longer-lasting soil improvement benefits.

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Agricultural soils, particularly in intensive and smallholder farming systems, often suffer from declining microbial activity, soil acidity, and poor nutrient availability, leading to reduced crop productivity and increased dependence on chemical fertilisers. Existing soil amendments may provide short-term benefits but lack sustained microbial support and environmentally sustainable characteristics.

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The project introduces a biofilm–biochar soil amendment developed by immobilising a consortium of Bacillus species onto oil palm kernel shell biochar, enhanced with sago starch as a natural binder and carbon source. The formulation improves soil microbial health, moderates soil acidity, and enhances nutrient availability while acting as a slow-release carrier that sustains microbial activity for up to four months.

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The technology combines biofilm-forming beneficial microbes with agricultural waste-derived biochar, creating a synergistic system that supports long-term microbial survival and soil conditioning. The use of sago starch as both a natural binder and co-carbon source further strengthens microbial stability and activity, distinguishing it from conventional biofertilisers or standalone biochar products.

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