Amanda BIRNBAUM

Amanda is Lead Scientist for Horticulture at Emirates Global Aluminum, where she spearheads bauxite residue R&D focused on developing best management practices for manufactured soils derived from optimized bauxite residue. She holds a Ph.D. in Horticultural Sciences from Texas A&M University with specialized expertise in nitrogen mineralization, sustainable agriculture and circular resource strategies. Her research bridges scientific innovation with practical applications and ecological restoration, including the use of spent coffee grounds as renewable nitrogen fertilizers. Amanda’s work advances circular economy principles and climate-smart agriculture, aligning with IUCN’s mission to promote nature-based solutions that ensure ecological resilience and sustainable development.