25 Jan 2017 MYCOTECNOSOL II
Application of new mycotecnosoils and mycorrhizal fungi to bioremediation as productive ecosystems of soils derived from altered slate, and that have been contaminated by mining activities and civil works (MYCOTECNOSOLS II).
Within the framework of the previous project, MYCOTECNOSOILS I, we created new Tecnosoils that retain heavy metals and degrade hydrocarbons by aggregating different species of fungi, applying them in two different areas of Galicia (Mina de Touro, A Coruña, and Vertederos del Ave in A Gudiña, Ourense).
The new project, MYCOTECNOSOILS II is mainly geared towards environmental problems in slag heaps affected by mining or civil works in Galician slate mines. The objective is to create specific Technosoils, and in this case, aggregate mycorrhizal fungi as a bioremediation strategy (Mycorrhizal mediation) to rehabilitate of these areas, and specifically to return them to productive use.
Mycorrhizal mediation allows the removal of both organic and inorganic contaminants from the soil, while improving the structure and making it easier for the plants to absorb nutrients. The information about the affected areas will be analysed, selecting the appropriate plant varieties, producing Technosoils to remedy problem areas. An analysis of the more relevant fungal strains will be undertaken to encourage mycorrhization.
The consortium is made up of 4 SMEs. HIFAS DA TERRA, which brings experience in the cultivation and application of fungi in soils rehabilitation, transforming it into sustainable and productive ecosystems; CENTRO DE VALORIZACIÓN AMBIENTAL DEL NORTE, an company specialised in Tecnosoils, EDAFOTEC SUELOS A LA CARTA, a consultancy specialised in soil and water decontamination solutions; and COMPAÑÍA GALLEGA DE SILVICULTORES, a company highly skilled at resolving forestry problems. In addition, they have the support of the Environmental Technology Laboratory (USC-LTA) of the University of Santiago de Compostela, with extensive experience in national and international R&D, as well as the Chemical Engineering EQ2 group at the University of Vigo.
This project is subsidized by the Galician Innovation Agency, it has had the backing of the Ministry of Economy, Employment and Industry and has co-financing from FEDER, OT1 “Promoting technological development, innovation and quality research”, PO FEDER Galicia 2014-2020.