Terra Mater Labs Bioeconomy Innovation Network

The scarcity of laboratories in Sub-Saharan Africa with multidisciplinary biomass testing equipment and technical capacity needed to enable rapid bioeconomic transformation is a critical path item to Africa's economic development and meeting global climate goals.

This deficiency hinders development of vital bio-based products and projects, stiles innovation, and slows investment in the region's bioeconomy. 

The absence of labs equipped to support testing of biomass for bioenergy, biochar quality, characterization and expected impact in soils, building materials, water filtration, energy storage, etc., certification of carbon removal credit on the African continent poses a significant challenge. 

Currently, most if not all (see carbon removal credit certifications) samples must be sent to Europe for testing.  This results in prohibitive expense, delay, and entrenches climate and economic inequities.

Establishing local, advanced biomass testing facilities is essential to unlock Africa's vast bioeconomic potential and achieving global goals for a Net Zero climate resilient future.

The bioeconomy is the rare example of an economy open to participation by all: small holders, communities, entrepreneurs, small business, academia, government, NGOs, and corporations. The cross collaboration, intrinsic alignment with natural systems, and interconnection of communities and sectors into a climate integrated economy it facilitates is essential to solving climate and creating true, lasting prosperity.

Terra Mater seeks to bridge this gap by establishing a state-of-the-art biomass laboratory network, empowering local communities and unlocking Africa's bioeconomy potential.

Implement training and development programs for local researchers, entrepreneurs, and technicians to enhance local expertise and stimulate industry growth.

Establish fully equipped laboratory spaces for diverse biomass research disciplines to ensure a comprehensive and versatile research environment.

Support development of skilled and unskilled workforce capacity through innovative initiatives to cultivate both talent pools, create jobs, and drive sustainable industry advancement.

Ensure access to the latest technologies and methodologies in scientific research and development to keep the labs at the forefront of scientific advancements.

Facilitate the development of standards around biochar to ensure quality control and safety, which are essential for commercial scalability and market trust.

Create jobs, support local economies, and contribute to sustainable development through value-added manufacturing processes.

 Facilitate joint research projects that leverage the strengths of both the private and public sectors, as well as indigenous and small holder knowledge, to address local and global challenges.

Enhance local producers' access to global biochar carbon removal credit markets by establishing the first accredited certification facilities in Africa.  Samples should not have to be sent to Europe, nor should the process of participating be prohibitively expensive, 

Forge partnerships with international organizations and accreditation bodies to support      objectives, create opportunities for geographical expansion, and ensure global recognition of African leadership in bioeconomy development & innovation.