Did you know that mother earth hosts around 300.000 edible plants but that on average 80% of our caloric intake is derived from 20 highly modified species?
It is this interesting fact that inspired an organisation called Bio-Innovation Zimbabwe (BIZ) to rediscover some of these resilient and versatile plant species.
An additional benefit is that many of these species, that managed to survive, adapted to the local often harsh climatic conditions and are able to grow naturally without inputs such as pesticides and fertilisers. Generally anyone can harvest them and no special equipment is needed. These species are therefore perfectly suited for low-income, small scale producers.
At BIZ, we’re working not just on food plants, but also on plants with medicinal, cosmetic, health ingredient, biofuel and even ornamental applications. And everyone benefits: we create new livelihood options to bring people out of poverty, we conserve biodiversity (making our planet healthier) and our bodies are healthier.
There are currently paying particular focus on about 20 species, such as Bambara Nuts and Devil’s Claw. Check out the BIZ website and the video below showcasing villagers in Bimaba growing Rosella. Really interesting initiative!
0 Comments