A guide, the first of its kind for the agricultural industry, has been published by WRAP Cymru that demonstrates how farmers and landowners can apply quality certified anaerobic digestates, made from biodegradable wastes, to their land.
The guide contains information on methods of applying bio-fertiliser to land to gain maximum benefit and control odour. As Wales moves closer towards implementing anaerobic digestion (AD) technologies, WRAP Cymru is working to create markets for the bio-fertiliser byproduct that will be up and running by 2013.
Explaining the rationale behind the guide, WRAP Cymru’s Lance Jones, said: “While the use of livestock slurries is already well understood within the agricultural industry, there is less awareness among farmers about how bio-fertilisers work.
“WRAP has carried out extensive research programmes which have proved how bio-fertilisers can significantly improve soil nutrient values for crops and can be applied safely and effectively. In the past, there were concerns over odour levels, but our studies have found that when applied correctly, the material should be no more odorous than pig or cow slurry.”
He added that the guide would be useful to any farmer who is looking for a cost-effective way of applying nutrient-rich material to their land.
Maxine Perella