'Manure policy must focus on precision fertilization'

The Netherlands is struggling with the problem of regional mineral surpluses. The current manure policy has been developed for this purpose. However, this policy appears to be quite susceptible to fraud and irrational, given the current state of the art. This undermines support and that is undesirable, because lack of support promotes fraud.

Author: Herre Bartlema

The recognition of plant nutrients extracted from organic manure as fertilizer substitutes for use in precision fertilization will generate more support for the manure policy. Fortunately, we are working hard on that.

All those involved consider the mandatory removal of minerals and payment for their supply in the form of fertilizer necessary for crop production, see it as irrational with the current technology of manure processing and consider it necessary in the rapid adoption of the precision fertilization that is currently taking place.

Precision fertilization is necessary
The application of precision fertilization is seen as necessary, by both the government and the business community. It is necessary for the success of the nitrate, phosphate and climate policy of the agricultural sector. It also provides growers with money. It has been proven and tested in the Precision Agriculture Programme, which the government and industry implemented from 2010 to 2015; as a result of the agreements made in the Clean and Efficient Agrosectors Covenant from 2008.

Precision fertilization takes place with liquid inorganic and organic fertilizers, which can be injected into the root zone at low-emission (in all respects) at paving stone level. This at the right time, in the right amount and in the right form; in relation to the needs of the crop. By processing the organic fertilizer surpluses in a factory, the demand for these precision fertilizers can be met both qualitatively and quantitatively. This is proven in the 'Nest-free Achterhoek' project. This gives shape to the circular sustainable high-yield agriculture.

Manure policy focus on precision fertilization
It is therefore logical to focus the fertilizer policy even further on promoting precision fertilization with circular fertilizers. This will be at the expense of the current high consumption of granular fertilizer, produced with fossil energy and associated with a high environmental impact (both during production and during application). This is also reported in the Agreement. 

It is a hard blow for the highly efficient fertilizer sector and for gas sales, but unfortunately it is no different.

About the author of this opinion
Herre Bartlema is part of Network Smart Fertilization† This network, in collaboration with LTO Noord, organizes various projects and information meetings about precision fertilization.

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