Wastes and by-products as possible plant nutrition

Leírás

Agriculture, the backbone of human civilization, is increasingly facing challenges due to soil degradation, nutrient depletion, and environmental concerns arising from the misuse of chemical fertilizers. To address these issues, a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach is imperative. One promising avenue is the utilization of industrial by-products and wastes as plant
nutrients. This book explores the potential of these materials to enhance soil fertility, reduce waste, and foster sustainable agricultural practices. Modern agriculture heavily depends on chemical fertilizers to meet the nutritional demands of crops. While effective in boosting yields, their excessive and prolonged use has led to detrimental environmental consequences, such as soil acidification, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the limited availability of raw materials used in fertilizer production, such as phosphorus rock, highlights the urgency of finding alternative nutrient sources. Concurrently, industrial processes generate substantial quantities of organic and inorganic by-products, many of which are either underutilized or disposed of as waste, posing environmental hazards. Using these by-products as plant nutritional sources brings together waste management and sustainable agriculture. Industrial by-products can replenish essential nutrients, reducing the dependency on synthetic fertilizers. Organic by-products enhance soil organic matter, improving water retention, aeration, and microbial activity. Inorganic by-products, on the other hand, provide a steady release of nutrients, ensuring sustained plant growth. Diverting industrial wastes from landfills or incineration
to agricultural fields mitigates environmental pollution. This practice aligns with circular economy principles, promoting resource efficiency Utilizing industrial by-products can significantly reduce input costs for farmers, especially in regions where access to commercial fertilizers is limited. Industries also benefit by reducing disposal costs and compliance burdens.
This textbook covers the classification of elements and their effects on plants, emphasising the physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant characteristics of plants. It also highlights the possible use of industrial and agricultural wastes and by-products in agricultural production, including case studies as well. This approach not only recycles nutrients, improves soil health, and reduces environmental pollution, but also supports global efforts to achieve sustainable development goals. However, its successful implementation will require collaboration among industries, policymakers, researchers, and farmers. If supported and successfully implemented, industrial by-products can transform from being an environmental liability to a valuable agricultural asset, paving the way for a greener and more resilient future.