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- Enhancing urban tree growth with NEPS at New Life Presbyterian Church
Urban trees face significant challenges, from compacted soils to limited nutrient availability. At New Life Presbyterian Church in Escondido, California, decorative trees planted in the parking lot median struggled for years, showing symptoms of decay, insect infestations, and poor canopy development. In 2018, the Nutrient Enrichment Passive System (NEPS) was installed to address these issues. This case study examines the transformative impact of NEPS on tree vitality and growth over two years. Urban trees face significant challenges, from compacted soils to limited nutrient availability Identifying the problem: Struggling urban trees The church’s parking lot median presented a difficult environment for tree growth, with narrow, curbed spaces and high foot traffic. Flowering plum trees previously planted in the area suffered from decay and failed to thrive. In January 2016, the church replaced them with 15 Brisbane Boxwood (Tristania conferta) and Pink Trumpet Trees (Tabebuia ipe), selected for their adaptability to urban conditions. Despite a drip irrigation system, these trees showed signs of stress and stagnation after two years, prompting the facilities manager, John Robertus, to seek a solution. The NEPS installation: A low-impact, sustainable solution In February 2018, NEPS units were installed around each of the 15 trees. Four units were placed per tree (three for one tree obstructed by a concrete block), forming a subsoil network to deliver essential nutrients. The ultra-light HAZL drilling rig ensured a quick and minimally invasive installation process. Within two days, the NEPS system was fully operational, with no visible impact on the parking lot or landscaping. John Robertus praised the simplicity of the installation: “The stigmas were almost invisible after installation, and we were able to resume normal activities immediately. This is a very positive point of your system.” Results: Transforming tree health and appearance Rapid improvement in tree growth Within four months, the trees showed significant growth and vitality compared to previous plantings. By 20 months post-installation, the Brisbane Box trees grew from 10 feet to nearly 15 feet, while Pink Trumpet Trees increased from 7 feet to 10 feet in height. Foliage became dense and vibrant, with no need for fertilizers or pesticides. Sustained vitality without additional inputs The trees thrived with the existing irrigation system, demonstrating NEPS’s ability to optimize nutrient delivery and water use. Robust health indicators, including enhanced foliage density and color, suggested a strong defense system against pests and environmental stressors. John Robertus remarked on the visible transformation: “The trees look amazing! In a location where trees have failed in the past, these trees are growing aggressively year-round without fertilizer, pesticides, or changing the water regimen. The difference is really night and day.” Trees are growing aggressively year-round without fertilizer, pesticides, or changing the water regimen Environmental and maintenance benefits Reduced maintenance efforts : NEPS eliminated the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, reducing costs and environmental impact. Improved aesthetics : The dense, healthy canopies enhanced the visual appeal of the parking lot. Water efficiency : NEPS optimized nutrient absorption and allowed the trees to thrive under the existing drip irrigation system, conserving water resources. NEPS is a model for sustainable urban forestry The successful implementation of NEPS at New Life Presbyterian Church demonstrates the system’s potential to revolutionize urban tree care. Exlterra's NEPS technology addressed fundamental challenges in nutrient delivery and soil health, and provided a sustainable solution that improved tree vitality, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced the urban landscape. This case study highlights the role of innovative technologies like NEPS in creating resilient, green cities for the future.
- Boosting agricultural productivity with NEPS for avocado and date palms
Agriculture often grapples with soil nutrient depletion and water management challenges. At the University of California Riverside’s Citrus Research Center and Coachella Valley Agricultural Research Station, these issues impacted the growth and yield of Hass avocado and Medjool date palm crops. In 2019, NEPS was installed as part of a trial to assess its impact on crop performance. This case study explores the findings over three years. Agriculture often grapples with soil nutrient depletion and water management challenges Identifying the problem: Suboptimal growth and yield Avocado and date palm trees at the research sites faced nutrient deficiencies and irrigation inefficiencies, leading to inconsistent growth and low yields. Traditional fertilization methods and irrigation adjustments failed to resolve these issues effectively. Researchers sought an innovative solution to enhance soil nutrient availability and optimize water usage. The NEPS installation: Enhancing subsoil nutrient delivery In May 2019, NEPS units were installed around avocado and date palm trees in trial plots. The system’s unique design delivers nutrients directly to the subsoil, improving root access and nutrient uptake. The installation was completed using the HAZL ultra-light drilling rig, ensuring minimal disruption to the research sites. NEPS-treated palms showed higher fruit weights and improved quality Results: Improved growth and resource efficiency Avocado trees While statistical analyses showed no significant differences in yield between NEPS-treated and non-treated trees, treated trees exhibited better nutrient absorption and foliage health. NEPS-treated trees demonstrated improved nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels in leaf samples, indicating enhanced nutrient uptake. Researchers observed a trend toward higher fruit yields in NEPS-treated trees located near pollinizers, suggesting potential synergies that warrant further study. Date palms NEPS-treated palms showed higher fruit weights and improved quality compared to non-treated controls. Enhanced soil nutrient profiles supported better overall tree health and productivity. Researchers noted reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers, aligning with sustainable farming practices. Dr. Peggy Mauk from UC Riverside commented on the system’s potential: “NEPS offers a promising approach to addressing soil nutrient limitations and optimizing water use, especially in challenging agricultural environments.” Environmental and economic benefits Reduced fertilizer dependency : NEPS minimized the need for chemical inputs, lowering costs and environmental risks. Water efficiency : By enhancing nutrient uptake, NEPS supported healthy growth with less water. Improved crop quality : Higher fruit weights and better nutrient profiles contributed to marketable yields. The NEPS trials at UC Riverside demonstrated its potential to address critical challenges in agriculture NEPS is a new frontier in sustainable agriculture The NEPS trials at UC Riverside demonstrated its potential to address critical challenges in agriculture. Exlterra NEPS improved nutrient delivery and water use efficiency, and provided a sustainable solution for enhancing crop health and productivity. This case study underscores the value of adopting innovative technologies to meet the growing demands of modern agriculture.
- How to eliminate basement humidity naturally and effectively
Humidity in a basement isn’t just inconvenient; it can lead to mold, structural damage, and unhealthy living conditions. Many homeowners struggle with ineffective dehumidifiers and costly drainage systems. Fortunately, innovative solutions like Exlterra’s GEPS offer a natural and lasting way to tackle basement humidity by addressing its root cause: hydrostatic pressure. In this guide, we’ll explore how GEPS transforms water infiltration challenges, making your basement dry and usable while reducing long-term costs. Many homeowners struggle with ineffective dehumidifiers and costly drainage systems What causes basement humidity? Basement humidity often stems from water seeping through walls and floors due to hydrostatic pressure. Common contributing factors include: Poor soil drainage around the foundation. High groundwater levels. Cracks in basement walls or floors. Inefficient grading or landscaping that directs water toward the house. Understanding these causes helps target the issue at its source rather than relying on temporary fixes. The GEPS solution: A groundbreaking approach Exlterra’s GEPS technology offers a sustainable alternative to traditional drainage systems by working with nature to improve water movement through soil. How GEPS works Reduces hydrostatic pressure: GEPS guides water deep into the soil, preventing it from pooling around your foundation. Enhances infiltration: It increases soil permeability, allowing water to flow naturally and evenly. Protects structures: By relieving pressure, it minimizes the risk of cracks and structural damage. Before GEPS Underground water before installing GEPS: Clogged infiltration, standing water and underground water pockets After GEPS Underground water after installing GEPS: Quick infiltration, homogenization and recharge of underground water Why choose GEPS over traditional methods? Unlike sump pumps or surface drains, GEPS operates passively, requiring no external energy or frequent maintenance. Key benefits include: Cost-effectiveness: Eliminates recurring energy and maintenance expenses. Eco-friendly design: GEPS uses durable polyethylene, ensuring long-lasting performance without harming the environment. Discreet installation: Installed below the surface, it preserves your landscaping and property aesthetics. Steps to eliminate basement humidity with GEPS Site assessment: A certified installer evaluates soil conditions and water flow patterns around your property. Custom layout design: The GEPS system is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance. Installation: Lightweight rigs place GEPS units below the soil, requiring minimal disruption. Results: Immediate pressure relief and enhanced drainage start protecting your basement from moisture. Additional benefits for your property Healthier Living Spaces: Reduced humidity minimizes mold and allergens. Enhanced Property Value: A dry basement is a significant selling point for homeowners. Sustainability: GEPS aligns with eco-conscious goals by conserving water and energy. Common questions about GEPS Can GEPS be installed in existing homes? Yes, GEPS can be retrofitted around existing properties without major disruption. How long does the system last? The durable polyethylene construction ensures a lifetime of reliable performance. Does GEPS require maintenance? No, GEPS operates passively and requires no regular maintenance. Take the next step A dry, healthy basement is within reach. Contact an Exlterra-certified installer to learn how GEPS can transform your property by addressing water infiltration challenges naturally and effectively.
- Exlterra expands its reach with first GEPS stormwater management installation in Belgium
The Royal Antwerp Golf Club, one of Belgium's premier golf courses, has chosen Exlterra's GEPS system for its stormwater management needs. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the club recognized that water conservation was a top priority in maintaining its course. With the GEPS solution, they expect to reduce irrigation by 50%, while simultaneously enhancing the ground's infiltration rate. This will help address longstanding issues with standing water and soggy conditions in various areas of the course, ultimately improving playing conditions. The installation of the GEPS systems started in November 2024 and will conclude in early 2025, focusing on several problematic fairways. The work is minimally invasive and will not require the course to close, ensuring minimal disruption for golfers. This exciting collaboration is being managed by Exlterra's new Belgian partner, Greenmix. Led by Dewi Merckx, Greenmix's golf course expertise allows for a seamless oversight of the installation process to ensure a smooth implementation with minimal impact on the course and its players.
- Boosting tree vitality and longevity in urban landscapes with NEPS
Exlterra’s Nutrient Enrichment Passive System (NEPS) has proven itself as a revolutionary solution for revitalizing struggling trees in urban environments, which present unique challenges for tree health, including compacted soils, limited nutrient availability, and harsh weather conditions. Across diverse locations, NEPS has consistently delivered measurable improvements in tree vitality. This is how NEPS addresses these challenges, improves tree health, and reduces maintenance demands while promoting sustainable urban forestry. Exlterra NEPS revitalizes struggling trees in urban environments How NEPS works to support urban forestry NEPS introduces a sustainable, passive method for improving soil health and nutrient delivery. By creating an underground network, it enhances trees’ access to essential nutrients and optimizes water use without relying on chemicals or mechanical systems. Case studies: Proven success across environments 1. New Life Presbyterian Church, California Problem : Decorative trees in the parking lot median suffered from decay, insect infestations, and poor canopy development despite using drip irrigation. Solution : NEPS units were installed around 15 Brisbane Boxwood and Pink Trumpet trees in February 2018. Results : By 20 months, Brisbane Box trees grew from 10 to 15 feet, and Pink Trumpet trees grew from 7 to 10 feet. Dense, vibrant canopies emerged, eliminating the need for fertilizers or pesticides. Maintenance costs decreased as the trees thrived using the existing irrigation system. 2. City of Pleasant Ridge, Michigan Problem : Newly planted urban trees struggled, and landmark trees exhibited signs of stress and decline. Solution : NEPS was installed around the struggling young and older trees. Results : Young trees showed immediate growth and resilience during dry, hot periods. Landmark trees displayed signs of recovery, with fuller canopies and improved health. Trees with NEPS required significantly less supplemental watering than untreated trees. The city plans to continue NEPS installations for newly planted trees in future projects. NEPS eliminates the need for fertilizers or pesticides Key benefits of NEPS Improved tree growth and vitality : NEPS enhances nutrient uptake and promotes healthier, more resilient trees. Reduced water use : Treated trees thrive with less supplemental watering, contributing to water conservation efforts. Cost-effective maintenance : Eliminating the need for fertilizers and pesticides lowers costs for municipalities and property owners. Environmental sustainability : NEPS supports urban forestry without chemical inputs, aligning with long-term environmental goals. What clients say James Breuckman, City Manager of Pleasant Ridge, highlighted NEPS's transformative impact: “The young trees with the NEPS are fuller, growing faster, and much more resilient during dry and hot periods. They require much less supplemental watering than trees that do not have NEPS installed around them. Our continued partnership with Exlterra and use of their NEPS is the highest endorsement I can provide for the firm and their product.” Looking ahead: Scaling urban forestry solutions Exlterra NEPS's success in diverse settings demonstrates its potential for broader applications in urban forestry and landscaping. As municipalities and organizations seek sustainable methods to address environmental challenges, NEPS offers a proven, scalable solution for revitalizing urban green spaces and enhancing their longevity.
- Exlterra GEPS is solving urban drainage issues
Urban areas face increasing challenges with water management due to impermeable surfaces and climate change. Exlterra GEPS offers a cutting-edge solution. By boosting natural infiltration rates, GEPS prevents flooding, stabilizes soils, and promotes groundwater recharge—critical for urban planners and engineers. Urban applications of GEPS 1. Flood prevention GEPS's innovative installation patterns rapidly channel surface water into deeper soil layers. For example, in high-traffic areas like sports fields or parks, GEPS ensures quick drainage after heavy rain, keeping spaces usable. 2. Soil stabilization for infrastructure GEPS strengthens soil for urban infrastructure projects, reducing risks associated with clay shrinkage or swelling in challenging clay-loam conditions. 3. Groundwater conservation Urban developments often exacerbate groundwater depletion. GEPS recharges aquifers naturally, restoring balance to the water table. Advantages for urban landscapes Adaptable installation : GEPS can be tailored to suit diverse urban needs, from parking lots to green spaces. Long-term savings : Lower maintenance and water costs make it a cost-effective choice for municipalities and developers. A sustainable urban future With its proven effectiveness, GEPS paves the way for smarter, greener urban drainage systems, enhancing city resilience against water-related challenges.
- Sustainable water management with Exlterra GEPS
Managing water sustainably is critical for environmental preservation and urban planning. Exlterra's GEPS provides a groundbreaking solution. By harnessing natural forces, GEPS addresses challenges such as groundwater depletion, soil erosion, and flooding, as seen at Rougemont Golf Course and beyond. Addressing real-world water challenges 1. Groundwater recharge GEPS revitalizes aquifers by encouraging deeper water infiltration. In arid conditions like India, where monsoons lead to flooding and runoff, GEPS offers a sustainable alternative to traditional systems. 2. Soil stabilization Compacted soils can hinder infiltration and increase erosion risks. GEPS stabilizes soil, making it suitable for construction and agriculture while preventing water loss. 3. Flood mitigation GEPS installations at Rougemont absorbed 1300mm of rainfall between October 2023 and May 2024, demonstrating their capacity to handle extreme weather without surface flooding. Environmental and cost savings Eco-friendly materials : GEPS units are made from durable, inert polyethylene, ensuring long-term performance without degrading the environment. Lower maintenance costs : With reduced fertilizer and irrigation needs, GEPS cuts long-term expenses for land managers. Transforming water management practices GEPS's ability to combine efficiency with environmental responsibility positions it as a leading solution for sustainable water management across industries.
- Revolutionizing golf course drainage with Exlterra GEPS
Excess water on golf courses can ruin playability and turf quality. Traditional drainage systems often fall short, leaving courses prone to flooding or drought-like conditions. Exlterra's Groundwater Energy Passive System (GEPS) is changing this. Installed at the Rougemont-le-Château Golf Course in France, GEPS demonstrated its capacity to transform fairways, greens, and overall water management while reducing maintenance costs. How GEPS improves golf course drainage 1. Efficient water infiltration Exlterra GEPS increases soil infiltration rates, ensuring fairways and greens remain playable even after heavy rainfall. At Rougemont, 30mm of rain in 25 minutes left no lasting water stagnation—play resumed within an hour. 2. Drought Resistance During the 2022 drought, fairway 5 maintained a lush, green appearance without irrigation. Soil moisture levels remained stable between 35-45%, proving GEPS's ability to retain and regulate water effectively. 3. Minimal Installation Impact Unlike traditional drainage, GEPS is installed with minimal disruption. At Rougemont, no surface deformation occurred, and work was completed in under a week. Environmental and economic benefits Reduced Water Usage : GEPS cut water consumption by 50% on fairway 12. Fertilizer Savings : Fertilizer use dropped by 40%, while root systems deepened and strengthened. The future of golf course maintenance The results at Rougemont highlight the transformative potential of GEPS for golf courses worldwide. Beyond drainage, GEPS promotes sustainability, reduces costs, and improves turf quality year-round.
- Revolutionizing soil decontamination: How Extlerra NSPS transforms Chernobyl’s future
The Exlterra Nucleus Separation Passive System (NSPS) is setting a new standard in environmental technology by tackling one of the world’s most persistent challenges: radioactive soil contamination. Designed to accelerate radioactive decay using natural energy within the ground, this groundbreaking innovation offers a sustainable, chemical-free solution to contaminated sites. Tested in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone under Project Hemera, Exlterra's NSPS demonstrates its ability to restore heavily polluted areas without disrupting the soil or introducing harmful substances. Discover how this transformative technology is reshaping the approach to environmental remediation. Harnessing nature to solve a global challenge The Exlterra NSPS system uses patented technology to redirect high-velocity particles naturally present in the soil. These particles, crucial in radioactive decay processes, are collected, accelerated, and funneled to break down radioactive isotopes. The result? A significant reduction in radiation levels over time without requiring soil excavation or chemical treatments. Passive Technology: Operates without external energy sources. Environmental Safety: Composed of polyethylene, the system is resistant to corrosion and abrasion, ensuring long-term reliability. Precision Installation: Units are strategically placed to maximize efficiency and results. The science behind the system Radioactivity naturally decreases as isotopes decay, releasing energy in the form of positrons and other particles. NSPS captures and redirects these positrons to accelerate the breakdown of radioactive materials. The result is a sustainable, scalable solution for even the most severe contamination. A bold vision for restoration The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, a symbol of environmental devastation since 1986, serves as the proving ground for Exlterra’s NSPS technology. Project Hemera aims to reduce radioactivity across a one-hectare test site, achieving measurable progress within six months and restoring natural radiation levels within five years. Installation highlights Site Preparation: Clearing vegetation and preparing the soil. Precision Drilling: Boreholes up to 18 meters deep ensure optimal placement. System Deployment: Over 19 kilometers of NSPS units create a network for energy redirection. A sustainable future for contaminated sites Exlterra NSPS exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and effectiveness. By offering a practical and long-term solution to radioactive contamination, this technology paves the way for restoring ecosystems and unlocking the potential of previously unusable land. Explore more about the NSPS here .
- Transforming Chernobyl: Exlterra's natural approach to reducing radioactivity
Exlterra has achieved significant reductions in radioactive pollution at Chernobyl using its Nucleus Separation Passive System (NSPS). This technology leverages natural forces to decontaminate soil and air without chemicals or excavation. After seven months, soil radioactivity decreased by 37% and air radioactivity by 46%, as measured by the Ukrainian SSE Ecocentre. Innovative technology: Nucleus Separation Passive System (NSPS) Exlterra's NSPS operates through a network of nearly 5,000 underground tubes of varying lengths and depths, strategically placed over a one-hectare area in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. This arrangement harnesses natural forces like gravity to accelerate the decay of radioactive particles, effectively reducing contamination levels. Measurable success in Chernobyl Within seven months of implementing the NSPS, the Chernobyl test site experienced a 37% reduction in soil radioactivity and a 46% decrease in air radioactivity. These results, confirmed by the SSE Ecocentre, mark a significant advancement in decontamination efforts. Future implications Exlterra aims to achieve complete decontamination of the test site within 15 years, with the one-hectare area expected to be free of radiation pollution in soil and air within five years. This success opens possibilities for applying the NSPS technology to other contaminated sites worldwide, including Fukushima in Japan, potentially preventing ecological disasters by eliminating the need to discharge radioactive water into oceans. Learn more Explore Exlterra's innovative solutions and their impact on environmental remediation here . Read more Good News Network : "Revolutionary Technology Neutralizes Radioactivity Around Chernobyl by 47% – Using Only the Processes of Earth" Good News Network The Optimist Daily : "Technology reduces Chernobyl’s radiation levels by 47%" Optimist Daily NeozOne : "Tchernobyl : une entreprise suisse dévoile un procédé révolutionnaire pour décontaminer la zone d’exclusion" Neozone Forschung und Wissen : "Start-up möchte Tschernobyl in Rekordzeit dekontaminieren" Forschung und Wissen
- Decoding the Nucleus Separation Passive System (NSPS): A scientific perspective on soil decontamination
Exlterra's Nucleus Separation Passive System (NSPS) represents a significant advancement in environmental remediation, particularly in addressing radioactive soil contamination. By leveraging principles from particle physics and nuclear energy, NSPS offers a chemical-free, non-intrusive method to accelerate the decay of radioactive isotopes in the soil. This article delves into the scientific mechanisms underpinning NSPS, elucidating its operation and effectiveness. Understanding radioactive decay Radioactive isotopes, or radionuclides, are unstable atoms that release energy through radioactive decay, transforming into more stable forms over time. This process emits various particles, including positrons—positively charged electrons. The rate of decay is typically slow, with some isotopes persisting for thousands of years, posing prolonged environmental hazards. The role of positrons in NSPS NSPS capitalizes on naturally occurring high-velocity positrons in the soil. These subatomic particles are products of certain types of radioactive decay and can interact with radioactive isotopes, facilitating their breakdown. By directing positrons toward radionuclides, NSPS accelerates the decay process, reducing the time required for decontamination. Mechanics of NSPS The system comprises a network of underground tubes installed at varying depths and patterns across the contaminated area. This configuration harnesses natural forces, such as gravity and the Earth's magnetic field, to guide positrons toward radioactive isotopes. The interaction between positrons and radionuclides results in annihilation events, converting the mass of these particles into energy and leading to the formation of stable atoms. Installation and operation Implementing NSPS involves strategically placing thousands of tubes in the affected soil. These tubes create pathways that facilitate the movement and concentration of positrons toward targeted areas. The passive nature of NSPS means it operates without external energy inputs, relying solely on existing environmental energies to function. Efficacy and results Field applications of NSPS, notably in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, have demonstrated significant reductions in radioactivity. Measurements indicate a 37% decrease in soil radioactivity and a 46% reduction in air radioactivity within seven months of installation. These outcomes suggest that NSPS can restore contaminated sites to safe conditions more rapidly than traditional methods. Advantages of NSPS Non-Intrusive: NSPS does not require soil excavation, preserving the site's integrity. Chemical-Free: The system avoids introducing additional chemicals, minimizing environmental impact. Sustainable: Operating passively, NSPS utilizes natural energies, aligning with sustainable remediation practices. NSPS exemplifies an innovative application of particle physics in environmental engineering. By accelerating the natural decay of radioactive isotopes through the strategic use of positrons, NSPS offers a promising solution for decontaminating radioactive sites efficiently and sustainably. Its success in real-world scenarios underscores its potential as a pivotal tool in environmental remediation efforts. Further reading Exlterra's NSPS Technology in Chernobyl Technology Reduces Chernobyl’s Radiation Levels by 47%
- Impressive performance data for Exlterra GEPS
An increasing number of golf courses worldwide choose Exlterra GEPS over traditional drainage With an increasing number of golf courses opting for GEPS over drainage systems, we have received invaluable feedback from greenskeepers. GEPS serves as a powerful tool in particular to streamline greenskeepers’ work. Mr. Thomas Olivier, greenskeeper at Rougemont-le-Château Golf Club near Mulhouse in France, meticulously collected data over two years to assess the impact of GEPS on his activities and cost savings. Mr. Olivier had already shared his initial observations with us. He has since divided them into four key areas: Water usage. Fertilizer usage. Mechanical operations. Sanding operations. The results are impressive: Irrigation has been reduced by 50%. Fertilizer usage has decreased by 30%. Mechanical aeration operations for decimation and aeration are no longer necessary. Sanding operations are no longer necessary. This translates into annual savings of approximately $2,000 per acre at the Golf of Rougemont. These results are the product of GEPS’ dynamic ability to rebalance moisture in the soil, promoting the absorption of rainwater during precipitations and maintaining optimum moisture levels in the topsoil during dry periods.