Sampling agro-waste for bio-char types: palm kernel bunches, corn stalks, and cocoa pod husks

During Y1|Q2, the research transitioned from preparatory planning into early-stage implementation, with emphasis on field-based activities, stakeholder engagement, and operational readiness. Building on the groundwork laid in Y1|Q1, the focus was on activating the sampling framework, strengthening community linkages, and advancing technical preparations in line with the approved FAR-LeaF II workplan.

A significant milestone achieved during this reporting period was the commencement of feedstock sampling in accordance with the previously developed sampling plan. Representative samples of palm kernel bunches, corn cobs, corn stalks, and cocoa pod husks were collected from selected farming locations and transported to the laboratory for proximate and preliminary characterisation analyses. These activities mark the formal initiation of experimental inputs under the project and provide critical baseline data to inform subsequent pyrolysis trials.

Sampling maize stalks (left) and cocoa pod husks (right) with a local farmer in the communities of Huniso and Pepesa (Ghana).

In parallel, structured engagement with local farmers was undertaken, with meetings and discussions held in anticipation of the upcoming planting season. These engagements were aimed at preparing farmers for future biochar application trials, in which biochar generated by pyrolysis will be incorporated into soils to assess its impact on crop productivity and soil performance. Proactive engagement ensures alignment between the research timeline and agricultural cycles, while reinforcing the project’s circular-economy orientation and community-centred approach.

Notwithstanding these advances, the main delay in the project timeline is the procurement of the pyrolytic unit. Engagements with equipment vendors and local fabricators continued throughout Y1|Q2 toward the design of a cost-effective lab-scale pyrolysis unit, which will serve as the platform for experimentation. In terms of outputs, Y1|Q2 consolidated several non-experimental deliverables, including initiating feedstock sampling, conducting preliminary laboratory analyses, strengthening farmer engagement, and refining equipment design concepts.

Capacity building also progressed through students' active involvement in sampling, laboratory preparation, and research planning. Overall, Y1|Q2 represents a productive transition phase, characterised by the initiation of field and laboratory activities, strengthened stakeholder engagement, and strategic adjustments that position the project for intensified experimental work in the subsequent reporting periods.

Field sampling and stakeholder engagements covered approximately 40–60km across Tarkwa and surrounding farming communities, including Samahu, Huniso, and Pepesa. This radius enabled access to diverse agro-waste streams and facilitated comparative environmental observations. During field visits undertaken as part of feedstock sampling and community engagement, an instructive and striking observation was made concerning environmental stewardship and community agency in the context of illegal mining activities, commonly referred to in Ghana as galamsey. These activities have severely degraded many water bodies nationwide and have been widely recognised as a national crisis, prompting calls for a state of emergency due to their environmental and socio-economic impacts.

While travelling through the neighbouring communities of Huniso and Pepesa, both located near Samanhu, Dr Fanyin-Martin observed a stark contrast in the condition of their water bodies. The Ankobra River, which passes through Huniso, was visibly polluted, reflecting the impact of sustained illegal mining upstream and in the town near the river. In contrast, a river which passes through Pepesa was obvious. Farmers in Pepesa indicated that they drink directly from the river during farming activities, a claim that underscores the river’s relative purity. Residents of Pepesa attributed this difference to intense community action. They explained that whenever illegal miners attempt to encroach on their land or riverbanks, the community collectively resists and drives them away. This encounter was both instructive and inspiring, demonstrating how local vigilance, collective responsibility, and community-led environmental governance can decisively protect natural resources.

A total of three distinct agro-waste types were sampled: palm kernel bunches, corn stalks, and cocoa pod husks, with multiple representative samples collected per feedstock and submitted for laboratory analysis to establish baseline characteristics.

Three farming communities were directly engaged during this quarter, with multiple consultation meetings held in anticipation of the planting season to plan future biochar soil application trials. Two students/research assistants were actively involved in sampling, sample handling, documentation, and laboratory preparation activities, contributing to hands-on training and skills development.

During fieldwork, several cultural and contextual considerations emerged, requiring sensitivity and adaptive engagement strategies. In some farming communities, initial hesitation was observed when discussing the utilisation of agro-waste, as specific residues, particularly cocoa pod husks, are traditionally associated with local economic activities, such as potash and soap production. Additionally, traditional authority structures and communal decision-making processes influenced the pace of engagement. In some instances, consent to participate in discussions or sampling activities required prior consultation with community elders, opinion leaders and the chief farmer, which necessitated patience and respect for local protocols.

There were also varying perceptions regarding new technologies, with some farmers expressing cautious scepticism about research-driven interventions based on past experiences with externally introduced projects that did not yield sustained benefits. Addressing these concerns required clear communication, transparency about project intentions, and reassurance that the research prioritises community benefit, particularly through planned biochar application trials.

Dr Ato Fanyin-Martin reporting on his progress for the following research project: Generation of Sustainable Energy from Microwave Catalytic Pyrolysis of Agro-Products.