Summary
This 2022 field study assessed whether dairy processing sludge and its biochar derivative could substitute for mineral fertiliser in cereal and grass production, using ryegrass and spring wheat as indicator crops. The research quantifies the nutrient availability and plant-available nutrient content of these by-products relative to conventional fertiliser inputs. The findings suggest as-yet-unquantified potential for dairy waste valorisation in nutrient cycling, though results would require peer-reviewed abstract review to establish confidence in efficacy claims.
UK applicability
Highly applicable to UK dairy farming regions, where processing sludge is a significant waste stream; results could inform guidance on circular nutrient management and support regulatory pathways for waste-derived soil amendments in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Key measures
Plant dry matter yield, nutrient uptake (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), mineral fertiliser equivalency ratios for dairy sludge and biochar treatments compared to conventional mineral fertiliser controls
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the mineral fertiliser equivalent value of dairy processing sludge and biochar-derived products using ryegrass and spring wheat as test crops, measuring nutrient availability and plant uptake.
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