In the vast fields of agriculture, the balance between productivity and environmental stewardship is crucial. With the right nutrient management practices, farmers and growers can not only boost their yields but also safeguard our ecosystems. Now Defra, as part of the Farming Innovation Programme, have launched a £15 million competition aimed at driving innovation in this field.
Understanding nutrient management
Nutrient management is a science that involves using organic or manufactured nutrients efficiently to enhance plant growth while minimising environmental impact. This means applying nutrients where and when they're most needed, reducing run-off, and combating soil erosion.
Challenges and solutions
However, nutrient management comes with its fair share of challenges, from nutrient leaching to contaminant removal. The Nutrient Management competition hopes to address these challenges head-on. With £15 million in funding, the competition aims to develop solutions that improve nutrient management in both soil and water associated with agricultural activities.
What you need to know
There are two competition strands for applying:
- Feasibility Studies: Projects up to 24 months with costs between £200,000 and £500,000.
- Industrial Research: Projects between 24 and 36 months with costs between £500,000 and £1 million.
Possible projects
The funded projects could include:
- Developing novel organic material treatment technologies
- Creating cost-effective methods for transporting organic products
- Innovations for contaminant removal
- Exploring bio-stimulants to enhance nutrient uptake
- Developing technologies to treat manures and create income streams
- Enhancing spreading and application technologies
- Adapting fertilisers to reduce leaching and run-off
- Improving water quality through waste material recovery
Important dates
- 29 May: Competition opens for applicants.
- 30 May: Applicant Briefing Webinar (11:30-13:30, join the Zoom meeting here).
- 5 June: Consortia Building Event (14:00-16:00, register here).
- 24 July: Competition closes to applicants (11:00).
Partnership and Support
The competition is delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). For any queries, contact Innovate UK at support@iuk.ukri.org.