Using manure as a valuable raw material
About this expertise
In short- Using nutrients
- Manure valorisation alternatives
- Improving low-emission barns
Manure is no longer seen exclusively as a residual stream, but also as a valuable raw material. By making better use of manure, it plays an important role in the cycle of phosphate, nitrogen and other minerals. Together with livestock farmers, WUR experts are also exploring opportuni-ties to valorise manure in the construction and horticulture sectors, for example.
We conduct research on crop manure use aimed at utilising nutrients and reducing environ-mental impact. For example, manure is rich in proteins, fatty acids and particularly minerals like phosphate, nitrogen and potassium. We work with private and public partners on sustaina-ble solutions to reduce ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions and to improve manure valori-sation within circular agriculture.
The Netherlands produces more animal manure than farmers are allowed to apply on farm-land. Together with livestock farmers and partners, WUR researchers are looking at different ways to valorise manure. There are several possibilities for this, such as exporting, generating energy, replacing artificial fertilisers and offering it to sectors that currently do not use animal manure, such as (greenhouse) horticulture and the construction sector.
More information
Manure is sent to arable regions in Europe, which need animal manure. This manure must be heated to prevent the spread of animal diseases. In addition, manure is dewatered as much as possible to minimise transport costs.
Manure can be used as a raw material for biogas production. After processing, biogas can be converted into Green Gas, which can be used as a natural gas substitute. However, digestate, a residual product from biogas production, still contains nutrients and often undergoes further processing.
By separating manure or collecting urine or ammonia separately, pure mineral fertilisers can be produced. Agriculturally and environmentally, these products have similar effects to fertilisers. There is a European intention to make it legally possible to use such manure products as an alternative to artificial fertilisers.
Animal manure may be of interest to sectors that do not yet use it, such as greenhouse horti-culture. That sector is looking for alternatives to growing media and biobased fertilisers. Or the construction industry, which is looking for bio-based building materials. The livestock industry can thus tap new markets and valorise manure in a circular way.
Manure can be used to fertilise arable and grassland, but also as a source of energy or as a basis for new (bio)products. However, its utilisation is not always optimal, which has negative effects on the environment.
If manure is not processed properly, it can cause problems. Consider phosphate and nitrate leaching, ammonia emissions and soil acidification. Greenhouse gas emissions from manure, such as methane and nitrous oxide, contribute to climate change.
In recent years, the agricul-tural sector has been working hard to minimise the impact of livestock farming on the climate and environment and reduce emissions. For example, farmers have built low-emission barns and researchers and businesses have developed other ways to apply manure to the land. With precision fertilisation, for example, you can apply manure to crops more efficiently.
Get in touch with our expert
Do you have a question about manure valorisation or opportunities to work with us? Please get in touch.
dr.ir. HJ (Harm) Smit
Researcher Manure Valorisation