Suspension Fertilizers: How to Reconcile Sustainable Fertilization and Environmental Protection

Abstract

Due to the growing world population, the challenge for the agriculture industry is to produce the right amount of food. This is not possible without the use of fertilizers. Unfortunately, apart from having a positive effect on the yield parameters, they can also adversely affect the natural environment. The use of fertilizers in excess or in a poorly digestible form causes the migration of fertilizer components beyond the reach of the plant root system. In this way, nutrients enter the groundwater, surface water and the atmosphere, contaminating them. The consequence of such actions is further climate warming and the deterioration of water status and air quality. Suspension fertilizers are an interesting proposition that meets the requirements of modern agriculture. They combine the advantages of liquid and solid fertilizers. The liquid form ensures better digestibility of the nutrients, especially in periods of drought, and the concentration of the ingredients is comparable to that of solid fertilizers. At the same time, production costs are lower, which is related to the simplification of the technological process and the possibility of using cheaper raw materials. A valuable advantage of fertilizer suspension is the possibility of using hydrated waste substances in their production.

The Possibility of Using Waste Phosphates from the Production of Polyols for Fertilizing Purposes

“…Waste phosphate from the production of polyols contains a large amount of water; therefore, it will be most economical to use it for the production of suspension fertilizers [ 25 ]. Therefore, Table 3 summarizes the results of the chemical analysis of waste along with the requirements for this type of fertilizer provided for in the new Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council (EU) 2019/1009 of 5 June 2019: PFC 1 (C)(I)(b)(ii): multi-component liquid inorganic macronutrient fertilizer [ 24 ].…”

“…The fine crystals that settle to the bottom can be successfully mixed again. On the other hand, large crystals will clog the spray nozzles in application/dispensing devices [ 25 ].…”

Economic and Environmental Effects of Innovative Potato Cultivation with the Use of Beneficial Microorganisms in Poland

“…However, improper and excessive use of mineral fertilizers or plant protection products poses a threat to the environment [Fasusi, et al 2021] and has a detrimental effect on the nutritional value of agricultural products and the health of farmers and consumers [Alori, Babalola 2018]. On the other hand, restrictions on the use of means of production result in lower yields [Popp et al 2013;Kirchmann 2019;Bogusz et al 2021;Kalogiannidis et al 2022;Gopinath et al 2023]. Therefore, it is important to take action to look for solutions that will reduce the negative impact on the environment while ensuring optimal income for farmers.…”