I work on ingredient selection for organoleptic properties, brand identity, and sustainable supply chains for the spa industry and distilleries. Bearing in mind threats to wild plant populations, particularly plants used as foods and medicines, caused by their socio-economic value, I investigate options for supporting rural livelihoods while maintaining wild plant populations, including the evaluation of possibilities presented by horticulture and sustainable wild-harvesting protocols.
From 2017 onwards, I conduct a PhD study at Naturalis Biodiversity Center and Leiden University on establishing the extent of trade in orchids used as salep and trailing sustainable harvesting methods. This research has significant applications for the conservation of biodiversity, livelihoods tied to wild harvesting, and traditional foods.
Keywords
botanicals, conservation, horticulture, salep, wildlife trade