Azolla as a Soil Amendment to Facilitate Carbon Sequestration

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $450,052 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This project investigates an innovative strategy for storing carbon dioxide in a way that potentially is both effective and scalable. This research explores the potential of Azolla, a fast-growing aquatic fern, to support long-term carbon storage in soils. Unique among plants for its ability to fertilize itself by fixing nitrogen, Azolla grows rapidly and could serve as a renewable source of organic material that improves soil health while drawing down carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The project investigates how Azolla-based soil amendments can contribute to climate mitigation by storing carbon, while also examining how these amendments affect soil life, including plants, bacteria, and earthworms. By focusing on a nature-based solution with minimal input requirements, the research aligns with sustainability goals. Additionally, by potentially integrating nutrient recovery from sources such as wastewater, it also supports the principles of a circular economy. The activity will provide significant educational opportunities through a course-based undergraduate research experience, engaging nearly 120 undergraduate students, graduate students, and a postdoctoral fellow. This will strengthen the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics workforce and promote public engagement with climate and environmental science. The technical goal of the research is to evaluate the use of Azolla as a soil amendment for carbon sequestration and to refine and test a new analytical

Key facts

NSF award ID
2526429
Awardee
SUNY at Stony Brook (NY)
SAM.gov UEI
M746VC6XMNH9
PI
Sharon T Pochron
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
Estimated total
$450,052
Funds obligated
$450,052
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027