Biorestorer: Synthetic Succession for Soil Restoration in Arid and Degraded Regions

Jan Chvojka

Soil degradation in arid and semi-arid regions poses a critical threat to global ecological stability and food security. This paper introduces Biorestorer, a systems-based framework for initiating synthetic succession and synthetic pedogenesis in highly degraded or sterile substrates where natural recovery is infeasible. The Biorestorer concept integrates dual-temperature biochar, rock-solubilizing bacteria (RSB), and acidic minerals into a modular platform designed to lower pH, retain water, and promote microbial colonization—effectively jump-starting early-stage soil formation. Rather than focusing on reintroducing native vegetation or nutrients, Biorestorer reimagines soil as a biotechnological interface assembled and calibrated for extreme environmental contexts. Each module has empirical support from the literature, and although the full system has not yet been piloted in the field, its design allows validation through component-based experimentation. The approach is intended as a scalable tool for practical soil reclamation, ecological restoration, and land management in challenging environments. In addition, Biorestorer may offer a foundational approach for controlled extraterrestrial environments, such as Martian biospheres or lunar habitats, where resource-efficient and scalable pedogenic systems are essential. By merging ecological theory with engineered soil processes, this framework opens new possibilities for accelerated recovery of soil functions and regenerative land management both on Earth and beyond.