CETIM: Artificial tailor-made soil
CETIM (Centro Tecnológico de Investigación Multisectorial)
Founded in 2011, CETIM is a leading technological centre dedicated to meeting the innovation needs of both industry and public administration. As a recognised scientific partner, CETIM creates value through research and the development of advanced technologies. Its work centres on applying knowledge and science to deliver cross-sector solutions for a sustainable future.
With a strong focus on circular economy and sustainability, CETIM’s expertise lies in three key areas: eco-bio technologies, advanced materials, and digital industry.
Role in TERRASAFE
Within the TERRASAFE project, CETIM is developing artificial soils. These artificial soils are customised blends of organic and inorganic waste materials designed to replicate the functions of natural soils under local conditions.
These innovative soils help restore degraded land by increasing organic matter, improving water retention, and supplying essential nutrients. Over time, they not only boost agricultural productivity but also reduce dependence on irrigation and synthetic fertilisers, contributing to a resilient and sustainable circular economy.
This innovation is being tested in Tunisia.
View some of our latest news!
Our latest TERRASAFE newsletter is out
In this edition, we go behind the scenes of ongoing work across Europe and North Africa, from emerging field insights to new research on land degradation. Highlights… Interview with Mark Schauer, Economics of Land Degradation We interviewed Mark Schauer,...
Desertification and soil salinisation in Tunisia: why does it happen and what’s the solution?
Excessively salty soil is one of the biggest threats to agriculture and food security. In this blog, Dr Nissaf Karbout explains why soil salinisation is degrading critical cropland in Tunisia and considers what the future holds for farmers in the region. Globally,...
Carob – a future-food that can grow in dryland areas
By Dr Charlotte Chivers Summary: Carob, a drought-tolerant Mediterranean tree, is gaining attention as a climate-resilient crop for drying regions where traditional agriculture is struggling. Mature trees survive on minimal rainfall and poor soils, though seedlings...