First guide on biofertiliser is launched for farmers
Sustainable farming news – by Beth Glanvill
18th October 2011
A new guide to inform farmers of the benefits of using biofertiliser has been published today.
The guide, the first of its kind, has been published by
WRAP Cymru (Waste and Resources Action Programme in Wales). It aims to show
farmers and
landowners how
biofertilisers, a by-product of
anaerobic digestion (AD), can be a cost-effective, safe and nutrient-rich method to fertilise their land.
"While the use of livestock slurries is already well understood within the agricultural industry, there is less awareness among farmers about how biofertilisers work," Lance Jones from WRAP Cymru, said. "WRAP has carried out extensive research programmes which have proved how biofertilisers can significantly improve soil nutrient values for crops and can be applied safely and effectively."
AD is the use of micro-organisms to break down food and other organic wastes to produce
renewable and create nutrient-rich digestate that can be used as fertiliser. Biofertilisers are able to replace conventional fertilisers and WRAP’s guide illustrates the different methods of how to apply them with maximum benefits.
Addressing concerns over odour levelsThe guide also includes details of how to reduce and control the odour, which can occur from using biofertiliser techniques – a common negative aspect associated with the process.
"In the past, there were concerns over odour levels associated with applying biofertiliser, but our studies have found that when applied correctly, the material should be no more odorous than pig or cow slurry," Jones said.
The UK produces over 100 million tonnes of organic material per year from food waste, livestock slurries, sewage sludge and energy crops, which could create an important market for biofertilisers. Biofertilisers will also help the Government meet targets in sustainable waste management in farming and overall renewable energy and climate change policies. Farmers are also being encouraged to implement AD technology to help meet national waste reduction targets. WRAP Cymru said it aims to have anaerobic digestion plants in the full swing by 2013 to create a market for biofertiliser.
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