A Chilean professor and engineer converts invasive weeds like the Chacay, an aggressive invasive plant that fuels forest fires, into agricultural substrates and natural repellents.
Rodrigo Navarro, creator of Rume Chacay, develops sustainable solutions to control this invasive weed from Europe that dominates from Valparaíso to Chiloé, displacing native forests. His innovation, supported by CORFO, addresses a critical environmental issue while generating compostable products.
The threat of the Chacay invasive weed in southern Chile
The Ulex europaeus (Chacay or gorse), spreading between Valparaíso and Chiloé, has replaced native forests and increased the risk of fires. Navarro explains: “The seeds can remain in the ground for 30 years and germinate more after fires”. This leguminous plant, introduced from Europe, thrives at 18°C and its management is complex due to its high resistance and rapid spread.
From problem to opportunity: the innovation of Rume Chacay
Navarro mechanically extracts only the woody part of the Chacay – preventing its regrowth – and processes it through chipping. His company offers two key products:
- Mapuchacay: substrate that retains moisture, inhibits weeds, and repels snails thanks to its high electrical conductivity.
- Cuyin Chacay: natural parasite repellent for pets. Both are 100% compostable and release nutrients like potassium and nitrogen as they decompose.
Forest restoration: the key to definitive control
Navarro emphasizes that extraction must be accompanied by reforestation with native species: “The Chacay needs a lot of light; trees like coihue or canelo provide shade that slows its growth”. He criticizes traditional firebreaks: “They leave land open for it to germinate again“. His method proposes creating “forest fences” immediately after eradication.
Environmental impact and advantages over alternatives
Unlike pompón – used as a substrate but vital for ecosystems – Chacay lacks ecological benefits. Navarro highlights: “Extracting it recovers biodiversity and reduces fires”. He collaborates with the Catholic University of Temuco to validate that his processing eliminates spread risks, using material with less than 15% moisture.
How to join the initiative
The products are distributed throughout Chile. Navarro invites participation in reforestation between May and November: “We include fast-growing native species. It’s about turning a problem into an opportunity”. The project represents a model of circular economy from the southern part of the country.
This innovation demonstrates how local solutions can address global environmental crises, transforming invasive weeds into resources for sustainable agriculture.
