A new technology that creates phosphorous-based fertiliser from sewage sustainably is now operational in England.
The UK uses 138,000 tonnes of phosphate fertiliser a year, all of which is imported. The phosphorous price has increased considerably over the years and natural reserves are limited.
The reactor is expected to sustainably produce 150 tonnes a year - half a tonne a day - of fertiliser for sale.
The new reactor will also improve the quality of treated effluent leaving the sewage works, reducing nutrient levels and in turn reducing algae growth in water courses.
The technology also reduces the issue of struvite precipitation in water pipes. Thames Water has estimated the nutrient-recovery facility will save them up to £200,000 a year in maintenance work caused by struvite.
Crystal Green fertiliser is sold throughout North America and has received Environment Agency approval for sale in the UK.
NFU Comment:
Agriculture is well placed to make use of nutrients from a range of recycled sources including sewage biosolids, composts, and digestates.
The introduction of this recovery technology makes sense for water companies in reducing phosphate discharged to the environment and recycling it into a product that can be used by farmers.