The rapid growth of the global population, depletion of water resources, and degradation of arable land pose critical risks to food security, necessitating the creation.of.new production zones and efficient resource management. Situated on mountainous terrain at 1750–2000m altitudinal belt is traditionally classified as non-agricultural due to its rocky soil, high lime, and climate. However, this ecosystem’s prolonged winter period serves as a strategic advantage by delaying vegetation, mitigating the increasing risk of spring frosts observed in the lower plains due to climate change. Furthermore, it fulfills the specific chilling requirements of the Malatya apricot. Soil fertility and nutrient bioavailability were optimized by incorporating sulfur and leonardite into the substrate. Lacking natural water bodies, the orchard relies entirely on passive atmospheric water harvesting, capturing the moisture driven by sharp diurnal temperature fluctuations, which eliminated the seasonal pumping.of.35 million liters water. This targeted soil engineering and water management yielded 95% sapling survival rate with robust root network. The system produced its first symbolic harvest in 2024, verified through soil analysis reports. Post-2023 earthquake, this microscale trial expanded into a 10,000-tree carbon sink that will sequester approximately 226 tons CO₂ annually equivalent to.a passenger vehicle driving 40 laps around the Earth's circumference proving that idle lands can transform into climate resilient economic assets.
Ayşe Umay Bahçivan (Sat,) studied this question.