Several recycled fertilisers can be used directly in agriculture. Struvite, a phosphate-rich fertiliser from sewage, is already used on a small scale.Digestate, a residual product from fermentation of manure and organic waste, and compost from separately collected waste can also contribute to more sustainable agriculture. However, complex regulations hamper the (re)use of these substances for food production. Moreover, some innovations, such as phosphorous and potassium fertilisers from ash incineration, are not yet sufficiently exploited.
Current procedures to turn waste into recognised raw materials, such as the EU End-of-Waste rules, are bureaucratic and slow. Clear guidelines and market incentives to encourage recycled fertilisers are lacking. There are also contradictions between different European rules. For instance, the Fertiliser Regulation, the REACH Chemicals Regulation and the Waste Directive do not fit well together. In addition, outdated rules for animal by-products and animal feed are an obstacle to the circular utilisation of fertilisers from organic waste streams. This leaves agriculture dependent on new (‘virgin’) nutrients, while recycling offers a more sustainable alternative.
Encouraging use
The EU should develop policies and market mechanisms to encourage the use of recycled phosphorus and nitrogen, the group believes. This could include quotas for recycled nutrients in fertilisers or tax breaks for sustainable alternatives so that they can play a full role in agriculture. The signatories of the call call for clear procedures for recognition of secondary raw materials, better coordination between different EU rules and support for farmers who want to use sustainable fertilisers. In the coming years, they will further develop their proposals in cooperation with policymakers and stakeholders.
The call is an initiative of the European Sustainable Phosphorus Platform (ESPP), addressed to the European Commission, the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. Several industry stakeholders support the call, including the European Biogas Association (EBA), Fertilizers Europe, the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), and the European Federation of National Associations of Water Services (EurEau).
Chemical industry
The chemical industry also faces ambiguities and contradictions in European rules around recycled raw materials and end-of-waste status. Back in 2018, the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC) called for a shift from ‘waste thinking’ to ‘feedstock thinking’ to support the circular economy. Last year (2024), the Netherlands, France, the Czech Republic and Ireland called for specific European rules for sustainable carbon sources in chemistry, which is directly in line with the need for circular raw materials.`. This highlights the need for a clear and supportive European framework to accelerate the transition to sustainable and circular production and ensure competitiveness.
For the full call, visit the ESPP website
Image: Einstock/Shutterstock
