UK low-carbon fertiliser site opens in Newark

A plant capable of producing up to 4,000t of fertiliser a year has opened near Newark.

Scottish wood pellets manufacturer Land Energy has launched the site in partnership with natural fertiliser firm Re-Genus.

It will produce fertiliser pellets containing fungi, bacteria and nutrients to help restore the soil microbiome.

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The pellets can be applied via a direct drill or spreader.

The Newark site will act as a pilot plant, with plans to scale up production with a number of smaller sites across the UK.

John Westmacott, chief executive of Land Energy, said: “This feels like a game-changer for soil health, climate change mitigation and UK food security.”

The ultra-low-carbon fertiliser product is approved for organic farming and is currently sold in 20kg and bulk bags, priced at £150/ha to £250/ha depending on soil sampling and crop requirements.

Re-Genus co-chief executive Daniel Iddon said: “It’s a perfect time to scale up a home-grown fertiliser solution.

 “With rising concerns about climate, food security and import taxes on high-carbon goods, British farmers need reliable, sustainable alternatives, and this is it.”