Field Trials Confirm the Potential of Recycled Nutrient Fertilisers

Field trials carried out in Estonia, Poland, Sweden, and Germany evaluated the agronomic performance of a broad range of RNFs under real farming conditions. The newly published report, based on two years of data, demonstrates that RNFs effectively support crop growth and nutrient uptake while also contributing to improved soil health.

Although some RNFs did not match conventional mineral fertilisers in terms of maximum yield performance, several organic RNFs delivered important additional benefits. These included improved soil structure, increased organic matter input, enhanced biological activity, and better long-term nutrient retention. The findings confirm that RNFs are a viable option for replacing part of the nutrients currently supplied by mineral fertilisers and can be successfully integrated into future sustainable fertilisation systems. Comprehensive soil analyses conducted during the trials showed no negative impacts on soil pH, macronutrient levels, or organic carbon content. In many cases, organic RNFs even improved key indicators of soil quality. Concluding that RNFs are safe to use and provide additional benefits to the soil.

The agronomic evaluation was conducted by four research institutions from across the Baltic Sea Region: the Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge, Julius Kühn-Institut, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, and Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation. Together, the partners assessed a wide portfolio of RNF products, including struvite produced by SF-Soepenberg GmbH, as well as Planteo and Gyllebo Gödning pellets featured on the CiNURGi Nutrient Recycling Award. Other tested products included ammonium sulphate solution (ASL), digestates, composts, biochars, pellets, and several other innovative fertilisers emerging on the European market.

By testing both established and next-generation nutrient recycling technologies, the trials provide a strong evidence base for the future use of RNFs in practical agriculture and circular nutrient management.

The report also highlights dissemination and demonstration activities carried out during the trials, providing stakeholders with reliable data to support agricultural decision‑making. By demonstrating that RNF could be an important component of a sustainable fertilization plan, the collected data contribute to building a more resilient and resource‑efficient agricultural sector. Read the full report for further information.

Picture: METK

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