Cellulose-Based Hydrogel Capsules to Address Soil Erosion Following Wildfire

Abstract

While natural forest fires promote regrowth and restoration within an ecosystem, a major cause for concern in Canada is deforestation due to an increased prevalence of wildfires brought about by industry practices and climate change. This has become even more evident recently with the wildfires burning in remote areas of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, creating smoke-related air pollution observed in many communities throughout Canada and the United States. Entwistle, Alberta, specifically, experienced severe wildfire during late April to early May of this year (2023), leading to numerous resident evacuations while firefighters worked to contain the blaze. Our proposed grassroots initiative involves the use of biodegradable cellulose-based hydrogels to promote water retention and soil health in the fire-ravaged forested areas of Entwistle, Alberta. Cellulose is the most abundant renewable biopolymer and is utilized for the synthesis of bio-based hydrogel. It is a green and sustainable material, giving it a biocompatible advantage over petroleum-based and synthetic hydrogels that possess toxic effects. It is derived from plant material and is fully biodegradable. Soil becomes dehydrated as a result of wildfire, with decreased water content and microbe presence leading to soil erosion and deeply impacting regeneration of forests. This has negative impacts on the broader environment, as well as on humans and non-human animals. The use of hydrogels to restore and maintain soil moisture levels, pH, and microbial environments is a novel approach to better maintain forest health from a One Health perspective.