Proudly Sponsored by Elemental Resolve Ltd
At the University of Warwick, Coventry, UK on July 5th
With global freshwater supplies shrinking and food demand soaring, a pioneering new STEM initiative is empowering young researchers to explore one of the most pressing scientific questions of our time: Can seawater be used to grow crops?
The Salty Solutions project challenges students to investigate how saltwater irrigation affects plant growth and essential mineral content, using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model crop. Working alongside university scientists, participants collect real data, develop advanced lab skills, and present their research at the Metals of Life Symposium at the University of Warwick in July 2026.
“Agriculture consumes around 70% of global freshwater. With climate change accelerating water scarcity, we urgently need new ideas and new scientists,” said Dr Edward Lant, CEO and Founder of Elemental Resolve. “Backing this project means backing the next generation of innovators who will redefine sustainable agriculture.”
Salty Solutions is designed to give students authentic research experience while contributing to real-world challenges such as coastal farming, saline soil management, and climate-resilient food production. Work from the project may support future developments in salt-tolerant crops and mineral bioavailability.
Students participating in the project will:
The initiative forms a key part of the Metals of Life programme, fostering international collaboration between schools in the UK and China.
About Elemental Resolve
Elemental Resolve supports research and educational initiatives that use chemistry and elemental science to improve environmental sustainability, global health, and access to essential resources. The organisation invests in practical, impactful projects that empower future leaders in science.