Optimizing Bio-based Fertilisers in Agriculture – Knowledgebase for New Policies
LEX4BIO reduces Europe’s reliance on imported mineral fertilisers by optimising nutrient-rich side-streams like manure and sewage sludge. The project maps availability and nutrient content of these bio-based fertilisers (BBFs) and develops safe, crop-specific application technologies to minimise environmental impact and enhance farm profitability. Pilot testing occurs at multiple European locations, evaluating around 80 BBFs for agronomic efficiency and soil benefits. LEX4BIO addresses environmental safety, showing contaminant levels below EU limits and no increased risk to soil or human health. It develops harmonised life cycle assessment protocols and identifies social and policy barriers, promoting awareness and legislative support for BBF adoption. The project outputs include policy recommendations, extensive research publications, and contributions to circular economy goals by closing nutrient cycles and strengthening sustainable European agriculture.
Duration: 2019 – 2024
Programme: Horizon 2020
Project ID: 818309
Total Budget: € 6,000,137.5
Keywords: bio-based fertilisers (BBFs), organic side-streams, soil fertility, agronomic performance, nutrient cycle closure, environmental impact, fertiliser safety