Continued research momentum, International Collaboration, and Strategic Milestones
Since the last reporting period, Pass NetZero has made substantial progress in transitioning from field experimentation to laboratory analysis and results generation. Between June and October 2026, all five master’s students advanced their research, with several completing experiments and moving into data analysis and thesis writing. The programme’s two university research meetings, held in August at NUST and October at LUANAR, provided opportunities to review findings, address technical challenges, and strengthen research quality.
Major Research Updates
- Steven Chirwa (LUANAR): Completed his Kauma wastewater treatment experiment and full statistical analysis. The combined Typha and Phragmites treatment achieved the strongest results across all measured parameters and stored approximately 19 times more carbon than the unplanted control. Steven also attended a DAAD GeoTraining summer school in Germany, opening opportunities for GIS and satellite remote sensing collaboration.
- Veruschka Dumeni (NUST): Completed her Goreangab Dam microcosm trial and TN/TP nutrient analysis. Heavy-metal analysis is nearing completion, with further work underway to distinguish plant-driven nutrient removal from the effects of an early algal bloom.
- Fenni Amadhila (NUST): Completed CHNS carbon analysis of Ulva samples and mortar testing using freshwater plant species. Preliminary results show better strength retention with freshwater biomass, with data analysis and thesis writing now underway.
- Ellen Kachulu (LUANAR): Successfully established a local Spirulina culture, formulated fish feeds containing different Spirulina concentrations, and completed five fish-sampling events. Final sampling and data analysis remain pending.
- Hilia Hatutale (NUST): Launched her wastewater phytoremediation experiment and improved the setup following seedling mortality and pump problems. Biomass is prepared for heavy-metal analysis, although laboratory access restrictions and instrument backlogs continue to delay final sampling and results.
Major Organizational Updates
- Research Standards and Collaboration: A common reporting standard now requires all students to include statistical variation and measurement uncertainty. Cross-project collaboration has expanded through freshwater biomass testing for sustainable cement applications.
- International Partnerships: Steven’s German training has established a pathway for GIS research along the Lilongwe River. Volunteer GIS specialist Meghan Hale has completed Namibia site maps, with Malawi mapping planned next.
- Funding and Strategic Partnerships: The UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme proposal for Malawi, developed with YOBO, is ready pending the opening of the funding call. The Windhoek River Walk initiative has advanced to the second stage of the UN-Habitat / IsDB / Earthna process.
- Communications and Outreach: The first version of the Pass NetZero documentary has been produced to support engagement with funders and partners. The programme is also preparing to participate in the IEC Stuttgart conference and COP31 in Antalya.
- Programme Coordination: Lessons from laboratory delays, seasonal challenges, and differing university calendars will inform improved research planning and better-synchronised progress meetings for December 2026.
We commend all five students for their continued research progress and thank our supervisors, international experts, volunteers, and partners for their contributions to Pass NetZero’s mission of advancing wetland restoration, carbon sequestration, and sustainable environmental solutions.