In an era marked by environmental consciousness and a growing concern for sustainable practices, organic farming has gained significant attention. Victor Adendorff, managing director of Scientific Sanitation Solutions (Scisan), explores why the latest technology being used in organic fertilisers is proving so effective in modern farming.

Chemical fertilisers, while widely used in conventional farming practices, have several negative implications for agriculture and the environment.

Firstly, chemical fertilisers are typically composed of concentrated synthetic compounds that are quickly released into the soil. This fast-release nature can lead to nutrient imbalances, as plants may receive an excess of certain nutrients while lacking others.

Additionally, the excessive use of chemical fertilisers can result in nutrient run-off, which pollutes nearby water bodies and contributes to the formation of harmful algal blooms. We have seen in the news the current crisis effecting the UK waterways with sewage and chemical run off from farming being key contributors.

Moreover, these fertilisers can degrade soil quality over time by disrupting the natural microbial balance and reducing organic matter content.

Furthermore, the production of chemical fertilisers relies heavily on non-renewable resources and energy-intensive processes, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation.

In light of these factors, the negative impacts of chemical fertilisers underscore the importance of transitioning towards more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives, such as organic fertilisers.

Scisan believes its new innovation from South Africa, which is produced by treating poultry manure with special enzymes, is proving a game-changer for the industry.

While traditional fertilisers are widely used in agriculture, their negative impact on soil health, greenhouse gas emissions, and increasingly significant costs for farmers, are deeply concerning for the industry.

The fertiliser has superior results in crop growth, health, and ecological care. One of the key advantages of the fertiliser is its organic composition. Void of the synthetic chemicals that harm soil health and the environment, this new fertiliser solution is completely organic and environmentally friendly.

The manufacturing process also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, making it not only good for crops but also for the planet. In addition to its ecological benefits, the fertiliser also offers significant economic benefits, with it, farmers saving up to 50% on their fertiliser costs while achieving superior results in crop growth and health.

This makes it an affordable and accessible solution for farmers of all sizes, from small family-owned farms to large commercial operations.

The move to environmental sustainability

Organic fertilisers are made exclusively from renewable resources such as animal manure, compost, and plant residues. They are derived from natural processes that work in harmony with nature, reducing the carbon footprint associated with chemical fertilisers.

Furthermore, organic fertilisers, reduce soil and water pollution caused by the runoff of synthetic waste, protecting nearby ecosystems, rivers, and groundwater sources. Meanwhile, their production requires less energy and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

This push for more environmentally friendly fertilisers is happening at pace, as around the world from the Netherlands to Sri Lanka to new EU regulations, governments work to phase out or ban chemical fertilisers in a move to meet climate change and environmental targets.

The Dutch government triggered mass protests by farmers after the June release of a plan to cut nitrogen fertiliser emissions 50% by 2030. Organic fertilisers are playing a broader role as part of a movement to phase out of chemicals that hurt the environment.

Farmers need to heed this trend to protect their bottom line and their business more generally. Looking at the figures, the global organic fertiliser market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% from 2021 to 2028 showing how this trend for organic fertiliser is growing.

The benefits for soil health

Organic fertilisers are essential for maintaining and improving soil, which is crucial for sustainable agriculture. These fertilisers contain a wide range of macro and micronutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and various trace elements.

When organic fertilisers are applied to the soil, they release these nutrients gradually, allowing plants to absorb them more efficiently. This slow-release mechanism reduces the risk of nutrient leaching and ensures that plants receive a consistent supply of nutrients over a more extended period.

Furthermore, organic fertilisers enhance the soil's organic matter content, improving its structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient retention ability. This leads to increased microbial activity, fostering beneficial soil organisms that promote natural pest control and disease resistance.

Human health benefits

The use of organic fertilisers also has several long-term benefits for human health. By utilising natural sources, organic fertilisers prevent the introduction of harmful synthetic chemicals into the food chain. This reduces the potential risks associated with pesticide residues and chemical fertilisers in conventional farming.

Organic farming practices also encourage crop rotation, which helps break the cycle of pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions. Organic fertilisers also promote the growth of nutrient-rich crops, leading to higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in the harvested produce.

Consuming organic food not only provides essential nutrients but may also have positive implications for human health, including improved immune function and reduced risk of chronic diseases.

In conclusion, organic fertilisers offer significant advantages over synthetic fertilisers in sustainable farming. Their environmental sustainability, soil health promotion, and long-term benefits for human health make them the best choice for agriculture.

By choosing organic fertilisers, farmers can protect the environment, improve soil quality, and provide consumers with safe, nutritious food. Encouraging the adoption of organic farming practices and supporting the use of organic fertilisers is crucial for building a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system that meets the needs of the present and future generations.