Water‐saving techniques for restoring desertified lands: Some lessons from the field

Abstract

Nature-based solutions can significantly contribute to restoration projects in areas affected by desertification processes, where they are necessary for reversing land degradation. Currently, one innovative solution is The Cocoon™, which has been designed as a new ecotechnology for improving seedling establishment. The Cocoon consists of a doughnut-shaped container made of recycled cardboard that provides water and shelter at least during the first year of a seedling, which is the most critical for plant establishment. To determine the effectiveness of this ecotechnology under different conditions, the Cocoon was tested on a variety of soils, climates, vegetation, and land uses. Six planting trials were performed in Spain and Greece, which covered a range from humid to arid climates. With the objective of studying its functionality, the survival of the seedlings, their vigor, and growth were monitored for 2 years.Compared with conventional planting systems, the Cocoon has effectively increased seedling survival, especially under dry growing conditions (low rainfall, soils with low water holding capacity). The Cocoon also allowed for higher growth of some species (olive trees, holm oaks, and Aleppo pines). Moreover, a positive correlation between the rainfall on the site and the biodegradation degree of the Cocoon device was observed. Overall, the Cocoon becomes more efficient in arid climates or adverse growing conditions.

Potential model of Scalesia pedunculata carbon sequestration through restoration efforts in agricultural fields of Galapagos

“…This implies that biodegradable technologies, adaptable to the unique highland conditions of the Galapagos, may offer significant advantages. Such technologies have already demonstrated positive outcomes in enhancing the survival and growth of other species in similar ecosystems [44][45][46]. Despite these promising results, it's important to note that our comparative analysis is currently limited to a four-year timeframe due to the staggered introduction of different treatments in the restoration program.…”

A global review on arid zone restoration: approaches and challenges

“…Some tree guard‐like structures have been specifically designed to increase soil moisture, with some examples of these being Cocoons and Groasis Waterboxxes. These “donut shaped” structures store and slowly release moisture into the soil, reducing water stress, and have been found to be better at increasing survival rates than traditional guards in dry climates (Negoita et al 2021; Carabassa et al 2022).…”

“…In terms of cost, guards are relatively cheap, though some more advanced types, such as Cocoons, will cost extra and should only be used where the benefit would clearly outweigh the increased cost (Carabassa et al 2022). Whereas material for guards adds extra cost during planting, the benefits of the decreased mortality they can provide may offset the cost (Dollery et al 2018), but this will depend on the effectiveness of the guard.…”