Nature-based Solutions for Unpaved Road Engineering in Brazil

Implementing Partner: Build Change

Project Name: Nature-based Solutions for Unpaved Road Engineering in Brazil

This project explored microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) to enhance soil stabilization and CO2 capture, improving unpaved roads for disaster resilient infrastructure.

Utilizing native microorganisms, the study examined bio-stimulation treatments that trigger CaCO3 precipitation, strengthening soil and minimizing erosion. These eco-friendly techniques reinforce roadbeds, boost durability, and reduce environmental impact, offering sustainable infrastructure solutions for vulnerable regions while advancing climate-conscious engineering approaches.

Loss to roads and
railways due to
disasters
$ 0 mn
Unpaved road
network in Brazil
0 %

Impact and Key Findings

1

Small field tests assessed soil density, air gaps, and moisture. Results showed that treated soil was denser, had fewer gaps, and retained less moisture than untreated soil, demonstrating enhanced quality, stability, and strength for improved resilience.

2

Despite challenges like uneven bioprecipitation and limited time, the bio-stimulation treatment significantly improved soil strength, cohesion, and erosion resistance. These findings highlight its potential as a valuable, eco-friendly solution for enhancing construction stability and long-term soil reinforcement.

3

The project highlights the importance of ongoing field monitoring to collect long-term data, refining insights into treatment effectiveness. This continuous evaluation enhances soil stabilization strategies, ensuring safer, more durable infrastructure and sustainable land management in vulnerable areas.

Resources

Aishwarya Pillai

Lead Specialist

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes. 

Alpana Saha

Director, Partnerships, Governance, and Resource Mobilisation 

Alpana heads institutional partnerships, governance, and resource mobilization at CDRI, advancing cross-sector collaborations that drive resilient infrastructure programming across Member Countries and organizations. With over 25 years of experience spanning international development, global health, and the non-profit sector, she brings deep expertise in fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and delivering strategic change. 

At CDRI, Alpana has been pivotal in forging strategic alliances with governments, international organizations, and philanthropies. She also plays a key role in fortifying institutional systems and board governance mechanisms as the Coalition transitions into an international organization. 

Before joining CDRI, Alpana held senior leadership roles at The George Institute for Global Health, Plan India, WaterAid India, and SOS Children’s Villages, leading institutional fundraising and cultivating strategic partnerships for social impact. 

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Control from Aligarh Muslim University and completed Executive Education at Harvard Business School (CSR India). Her work is driven by a commitment to building enduring, values-based partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes.