Buje, Pivka, Slovenia. June 26, 2025. EIP-Biooglje – Sustainable Agriculture in Slovenia: Preparation of Innovative Biochar-based Fertilizers and Their Use in Organic Vegetable Production
EIP-Biooglje held a meeting on June 26th where Ana Rotter from the National Insititute of Biology (NIB) presented good practices related to jellyfish biowaste, how to extract chitin from crustacea using green chemistry, and also discussed circular economy and bioeconomy. EIP-Biooglje supports sustainable agriculture in Slovenia by improving soil fertility, reducing organic waste, and increasing resilience to climate change. It focuses on the production of biochar from locally sourced organic materials (such as manure, wood residues, and marine shell waste), which is then enhanced through composting and the addition of biostimulants to create innovative, eco-friendly fertilizers. These fertilizers will be tested in pilot trials on partner farms, particularly in vegetable production, to evaluate their impact on soil quality, crop yields, and environmental performance, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
The project also includes training workshops, a digital tool for monitoring field trials and calculating fertilizer needs, and a practical manual to support on-farm implementation. By encouraging a circular economy, it enables farms to turn waste into valuable inputs and reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers.
The project offers practical solutions to:
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Increase soil fertility and improve soil structure
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Boost water retention and reduce erosion
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Lower the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
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Reuse farm waste through composting and biochar production
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Improve crop quality and resilience to climate stress
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Support farm self-sufficiency in vegetable production
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Equip farmers with knowledge and tools for sustainable practices
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Disseminate results through workshops, manuals, and outreach events
More information here:
