How did L'équilibre de la Nature originate?
L'équilibre de la Nature products are manufactured for AlgJem Global Trading in Atlantis in the Western Cape. Manufacturing started in 2002, but South Africa was not quite ready for these products back then, as awareness of environmentally responsible production, nutrient-dense foods, and the prevention of antimicrobial resistance was not as great as today.
After struggling to enter the local market, the company focused on exports. Today, 95% of its production is exported to 48 countries under various brand names.
What was the catalyst to develop the product?
The product developer, whilst involved in a hydro-energy project in Congo-Brazzaville back in 1996, was seeking a method to decompose tree stumps in the flood basin of the Congo River. His research led him to Bologna University in Italy.
Thirty years before, the university had appointed a team of scientists to establish how the switch to chemical fertilisers would affect agricultural production in the long run, and to look at ways to buffer this impact.
They predicted that chemical fertiliser would destroy the biological balance and structure of the soil, and that farmers would have to use more and more fertiliser to get the same results as in the past.
They then researched various ways to counter this effect, with one study looking at the development of a combination of bacteria to produce humus. Humusorm organisms help to accelerate the decomposing process, which particularly interested the developer. He was so impressed that he bought the intellectual property rights to this solution and underwent extensive training on its production and preservation.
What are the unique properties of the product?
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.