Adapting composting technologies for the utilization of plant biomass to meet the conditions of the European Green Deal in the areas of GHG reduction, environmental protection, and enhancement of soil fertility

Low yields represent a primary challenge in organic farming, while integrated farming faces increasing prices of synthetic fertilizers and environmental requirements. This prompts the search for new solutions to ensure soil fertility and sustainability. The use of compost containing diverse microorganisms is an effective method for enhancing soil fertility. Utilizing such compost improves water and air infiltration and soil structure, ensures the availability of macroelements while reducing leaching, promotes carbon sequestration, degrades toxic substances in the soil, and decreases the risks associated with plant diseases and pests in crop production. Throughout the project, the quality of compost prepared from purposefully cultivated plant biomass will be assessed, as well as changes in soil properties following its application will be evaluated by a method relatively unknown in Latvia (SFWS). The application of this compost in substrates for horticulture could serve as a substitute for peat usage, which aligns with current priorities regarding the implementation of the European Green Deal. The project will determine the effectiveness of compost utilization in various crop rotations within horticulture and mixed-type farming, and will also calculate the economic justification for compost preparation and use. Concurrently, straw/manure compost will be produced, which would be suitable for mixed crop/livestock farms to enhance soil fertility and promote sustainable resource utilization.

The aim of the project is to develop innovative, biologically and economically based composting systems for the production of high quality compost rich in diverse microorganisms, using specially cultivated plant biomass, and to evaluate the effectiveness of using biologically active compost in crop rotation and substrate preparation within integrated or organic farming systems.

The project cooperation partners: SIA "Latvian Rural Consultancy and Education Centre", "Latvian Organic Farming Association", SIA "LM Product", farm "Atvases", SIA "EKO DĀRZS".

The total eligible project costs – 299,288.18 EUR, public funding – 254,394.94 EUR.