- An innovative project which aims to provide UK farmers and growers with a sustainable, environmentally friendly nutrient management solution is underway following a partnership between industry experts.
The project, called ‘Biofilm Biofertiliser’, will develop a novel multi-species biofilm-based biofertiliser product that reduces the use of synthetic fertilisers by 40-50%.
By utilising a unique consortium of UK indigenous biofilm-forming plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), which is tailored to UK soils, it will improve soil quality and plant/crop health, resulting in 20-30% higher yields.
Formulation types include water-dispersible granules (WDG) and encapsulated options, which aims to improve nutrient availability, enhance soil health and foster a stable biofilm with a targeted minimum shelf life of up to 24 months.
Following funding from the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK, the project is being led by a consortium of partners including lead partner, Bionema Group, a global leader in biocontrol technology development operating a Centre of Excellence and Technology Platform in biological formulation; CPI, responsible for the process development and production of samples for the UK field trials, and the UK Agri-Tech Centre, responsible for project management and dissemination/exploitation ensuring awareness raising and end-user engagement.
As part of this project, three UK farmers and growers in agriculture and horticulture will be provided with a nutrient management solution which offers a low-cost alternative to synthetic fertilisers, improved soil and plant health, increased crop yields by 20-30% and a reduced nutrient run-off.
Additionally, the innovative biofilm-based biofertiliser will be produced and manufactured in the UK, reducing reliance on imports from global suppliers.
Farmers and growers are facing the challenge of reducing synthetic fertiliser usage as required by law/regulations whilst increasing food production using more sustainable, organic farming methods to meet an ever-rising global demand.
Potential impacts
Bionema’s technology will benefit farmers and growers by improving soil quality, plant health and yields, thus integrating seamlessly into existing farming practises and leading to more sustainable farming, greater resilience and higher profits.
There are many economic benefits including generating employment and revenue from new product formulations, established global partnerships and increased export opportunities whilst establishing the UK as a leader in biocontrol technology.
Farmers and growers will also be contributing to lower GHG emissions, improved air quality and reduced environmental pollution from nitrogen run-offs.
In addition, technology integration will streamline farming practices, promoting sustainable agriculture and resilience whilst the innovation will drive the biocontrol and biofertiliser sector forward, encouraging a shift from synthetic to bio-based solutions.
The project aligns with UK and EU regulatory commitments to reduce synthetic fertilisers by 20% by 2030 and supports sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as Zero Hunger, Good Health and Wellbeing, Responsible Consumption and Production and Life on Land.
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