The Use of Marine Biomass in Biofertiliser and Biostimulant Production: Current Status and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The use of different marine biomass materials as biofertilisers has been recognised since the beginning of human civilisation – particularly the use of seaweeds in agriculture. The production of biofertilisers (or components of biofertilizers) from seaweed or other alternative marine materials is currently of high interest given the global desire to move away from unsustainable synthetic fertiliser products. A more circular approach – that brings together the blue-green economies – is also consistent with UN Sustainable Development Goals to promote more “responsible consumption and production” patterns. The overuse of current (NPK) fertilisers within intensive agriculture is now leading to global shortages and depleting stocks of critical resources like mined rock phosphate. This chapter explores past and present research, commercial application, and future perspectives in using micro/macro algae, cyanobacteria, and other marine resources (i.e., crustacean and shell waste biomass) to help displace our reliance on traditional fertilisers. Such materials may be used in the raw form or following certain treatment processes (i.e., pyrolysis, functionalisation, nutrient enrichment, or extraction of bioactives) before their application in soil. Additionally, the chapter explores the unknowns and potential risks of using biofertilisers for both human and environmental health.