The new invention is developed by Torfinn Johnsen, in collaboration with numerous partners, such as University of Stavanger (UiS), the Research Council of Norway and Statoil.
“We’re interested in initiatives that could benefit the climate and we want to explore whether there is a business opportunity in it”, Per Øyvind Johansen from Statoil said.
International attention
The product, a bio-membrane, has already drawn attention world wide. The inventor and Professor Torleiv Bilstad at UiS were earlier this year invited to present the product at a research conference in the States, initiated by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), which issues the renowned magazine –Science.
Moisturise
The bio-membrane is a powder completely stripped from artificial and dangerous chemicals. The powder is mixed into the soil or sprayed on top of it after planting. The membrane works like a sponge and absorbs water and nutrition that subsequently enables the plants to soak it up. This will benefit dry regions and desert areas and increase the soil’s fertility.
The membrane is adjustable depending on the purpose. It can boost the soil’s ability to absorb sunlight as well as reflect the sunlight and regulate the temperature of the earth.
Regulates temperature
According to Johnsen, his invention allows the earth’s middle temperature to drop to the level before the industrial revolution, if the bio-membrane is used correctly.