Key Takeaways
- NADEC has partnered to launch large-scale field trials of EF Polymer following a technology-scouting process.
- EF Polymer’s solution is designed to reduce irrigation water use and improve soil health in arid regions.
- Trials will focus on strategic crops including wheat, olive trees, and blueberries.
- The initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to reduce non-renewable groundwater use.
- The partnership supports long-term food and water security in the Kingdom.
NADEC Advances Field Trials for Water-Saving Soil Technology
The National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC) has initiated large-scale field trials of EF Polymer’s soil-enhancing technology, marking a new phase in its strategy to strengthen food and water security in Saudi Arabia. The collaboration follows a structured technology-scouting framework led by Universal Materials Incubator and focuses on deploying scalable agricultural solutions suited to arid and semi-arid environments.
The trials will evaluate EF Polymer’s proprietary material, a 100 percent organic and biodegradable powder derived from upcycled food waste. Designed to function like a “soil battery,” the material can absorb up to 50 times its own weight in water and gradually release moisture directly to plant roots. According to EF Polymer, this process can reduce irrigation water use by up to 40 percent while supporting crop productivity.
Improving Soil Health and Nutrient Efficiency
Beyond water retention, EF Polymer’s solution is engineered to improve nutrient efficiency by reducing fertilizer leaching. This can lower overall fertilizer requirements while maintaining crop performance. After approximately one year in the soil, the material biodegrades fully into organic carbon, organic matter, and trace nutrients such as magnesium, calcium, and nitrogen, contributing to long-term soil fertility.
