Enhancing Soil Health and Plant Growth with Chlorella Biostimulants
ONT Holdings is revolutionizing sustainable farming by developing a Chlorella vulgaris-based biostimulant to enhance soil health and plant growth. Supported by BCCAI and tested with the University of the Fraser Valley, this innovation promises a natural alternative to traditional farming inputs, improving crop resilience and sustainability.
The problem
Excessive and inefficient use of fertilizers leads to nutrient losses, damaging the environment, causing drinking water contamination and eutrophication (excessive plant and algal growth) of freshwater systems and coastal zones. It is critical to practice good management of pesticides and fertilizers and develop sustainable alternatives. ONT Holdings, a forward-thinking start-up based in Langley specializing in Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) using microalgae, sought to overcome these challenges with a focus on sustainability and circular economy principles.
The solution
In 2023, ONT Holdings embarked on a project to develop a biostimulant (bioactive compounds that stimulate plant growth and optimize plant health) using Chlorella vulgaris, a microalgae known for its exceptional CO2 absorption capabilities and beneficial effects in agriculture. Supported by BCCAI and in collaboration with the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), the project aims to ensure that the biostimulant enhances soil health, improves plant growth, and reduces reliance on traditional chemical fertilizers.
The innovative biostimulant works by boosting soil microbial activity, which enhances nutrient uptake and water retention, ultimately leading to healthier and more productive plants. By focusing on natural solutions, the biostimulant addresses environmental concerns such as soil degradation and greenhouse gas emissions. It also presents a promising alternative to synthetic inputs, aligning with ONT Holdings’ commitment to sustainability.
The development process presents several challenges, including formulating a product effective across various crops and soil types and securing sufficient funding for research and trials. BCCAI’s support was crucial in helping ONT Holdings navigate these obstacles, facilitating the research and development phase and providing financial assistance.
The potential applications of the Chlorella vulgaris based biostimulant extend beyond traditional farming. It shows promise in small-scale gardening, large-scale agriculture, and hydroponics. Additionally, the residual biomass from the biostimulant production can be utilized in other industries, such as renewable energy, animal feed, and health supplements, reflecting ONT Holdings’ zero-waste and circular economy goals.
Status: IN PROGRESS
- $71,000 in funds
- HQP(s) jobs created:5
