Global Fertilizer Shortage: The Benefits of Nutrient Recycling & Closing the Loop with Aquamation

This is PART 5 of a multi-blog series about the intersection of the global fertilizer shortage and aquamation. It stands to reason that a nutrient-dense byproduct of alkaline hydrolysis can be considered a potential solution for sustainable sourcing of fertilizer.

Nutrient recycling is a critical process in sustainable farming and environmental stewardship. It allows for the reuse of essential nutrients, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and minimizing waste. One emerging method that fits into this model is aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis. Aquamation uses water and alkaline to reduce the organic material of a body to nutrient-rich effluent (wastewater) and could provide an eco-friendly way to “close the loop” by returning essential nutrients back to the soil.

Aquamation is a gentle process that breaks down organic material using water, heat, and an alkaline solution. The byproduct of this process includes a liquid that is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are the same vital elements required for plant growth. By harnessing the nutrient potential in aquamation wastewater, we can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers, which are often produced through energy-intensive processes and can harm the environment when overused (Lehmann & Joseph, 2009).

Recycling nutrients in this way aligns with the principles of circular agriculture, a system that emphasizes reducing waste and returning valuable resources to the land. Many contemporary farming practices and methods often lead to nutrient depletion and environmental degradation, but nutrient recycling (possibly through aquamation) offers a sustainable solution. It helps maintain soil fertility without over-reliance on chemical inputs and reduces pollution risks associated with runoff from synthetic fertilizers (Gaskell & Smith, 2007).

As the agricultural industry moves toward sustainability, nutrient recycling through methods like aquamation represents a crucial step in closing the loop on waste. This not only preserves our planet’s natural resources but also fosters a healthier, more balanced ecosystem.

References:

Gaskell, M., & Smith, R. (2007). Nitrogen sources for organic vegetable crops. HortTechnology, 17(4), 431-441.

Lehmann, J., & Joseph, S. (2009). Biochar for environmental management: Science and technology. Earthscan.

LeBoeuf, B. (2021). Circular agriculture and nutrient recycling. Sustainable Agriculture Journal, 12(3), 55-70.