Summary
This field-based study investigated the environmental fate of nitrogen following the land application of food-based digestates and composts, as suggested by quantifying losses through volatilisation, denitrification and leaching pathways. The research provides empirical data on nitrogen efficiency and environmental risk associated with organic waste recycling to agricultural land, findings relevant to both waste management policy and soil nutrient management practice in the United Kingdom.
UK applicability
The study was conducted in the UK and directly addresses the environmental performance of organic waste products (digestates and composts) under British climatic and soil conditions. The findings inform best practice guidance for organic waste application, particularly relevant to regulations governing the Quality Protocol for compost and digestate use in England and Scotland.
Key measures
Ammonia volatilisation, nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions, nitrate leaching, soil mineral nitrogen, nitrogen recovery, application rate and timing effects
Outcomes reported
The study measured nitrogen losses to air and water following field applications of food-based digestate and compost to agricultural land. Environmental losses were quantified across multiple pathways including ammonia volatilisation, nitrous oxide emissions, and nitrate leaching.
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