Water scarcity as a global challenge
Water scarcity as a global challenge
Multi-year droughts (MYDs) pose an increasing threat: According to a Science study , these events have intensified in extent and severity, and the land area affected by MYDs is growing by about 49,000 km² every year – more than the entire area of Switzerland. During such droughts, plants increasingly lose vitality, especially in semi-arid regions [1].
In light of this development, one technology is becoming increasingly important: our RETENTIS® Hydrogel. It stores water and nutrients directly in the soil and releases them evenly to plants over a longer period [2] – an answer to the growing threat of droughts.
Benefits of RETENTIS® in dry regions
- Efficient water use: Water is stored directly in the root zone instead of seeping away or evaporating.
- Lower maintenance effort: Reduced need for irrigation, more resilient plants.
- Optimized nutrient availability: Fertilizers remain in the soil longer, leading to healthier plant growth.
Practical projects – RETENTIS® in action
- HydroBeet (Germany): The HydroBeet project is testing the use of hydrogels in arable farming. The goal is to improve water storage in the soil and ensure crop supply even during dry periods. HydroBeet project info
- TERRASAFE – Desertification Innovations: Within the TERRASAFE project, RETENTIS® is being tested in several regions of Europe and North Africa to combat desertification. The initiative examines how innovations such as hydrogels can contribute to soil stabilization and water retention. TERRASAFE – KPIs | TERRASAFE & AgroBiogel cooperation
Sustainability
What makes RETENTIS® special: While many hydrogels are based on synthetic polymers such as polyacrylates, RETENTIS® is 100% biological. Made from renewable raw materials of the wood industry, it leaves no microplastics and improves soil health in the long term.
In addition, the product can be used flexibly – whether in small gardens, arable farming or in large-scale agricultural projects. This way, water can be saved and yields stabilized.
Conclusion
In times of intensifying droughts and increasing water stress, hydrogels are becoming a key tool, and RETENTIS® shows how sustainable technologies can best support plants. Anyone aiming for long-term plant protection and resource conservation will find a practical solution in RETENTIS®.
References
[1] Liangzhi Chen et al., Global increase in the occurrence and impact of multiyear droughts. Science 387, 278–284 (2025).
DOI: 10.1126/science.ado4245
[2] Frioni, Tommaso, et al. “Superabsorbent hydrogels: A new tool for vineyard water management?” Agricultural Water Management 306 (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2024.109145
Image source: terrasafe.eu
