The European Union is exploring the use of manure-based fertilizers to replace some of the chemical fertilizers it imports from Russia, as part of a broader strategy to reduce its reliance on Russian resources amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Financial Times reports that the EU is considering the use of “Renure,” a product derived from animal dung and urine, which could lower the cost of fertilizers and improve efficiency, while also supporting the circular economy.
Christophe Hansen, the EU’s agriculture commissioner, emphasized the benefits of manure-based fertilizers, pointing out that they don’t rely on high energy inputs like synthetic fertilizers, which are expensive to produce. He also highlighted the potential of manure and food waste in producing biogas, offering an alternative energy source that could help the EU achieve its goal of reducing dependence on Russian gas.
The push for Renure is also part of the EU’s broader efforts to lessen its reliance on Russian imports, including fertilizers, which are produced using large amounts of natural gas. With high gas prices, the production of chemical fertilizers has become increasingly uncompetitive. In response, the European Commission has proposed tariffs on Russian fertilizers, although some EU member states are hesitant, fearing higher costs for their farmers.
According to FT, Renure could reduce fertilizer costs by nearly 5% in livestock-heavy regions, based on a study from Dutch and Belgian academics. However, the EU has traditionally restricted manure use due to its nitrogen content, which can contribute to water pollution. The Commission plans to approve Renure this year, after lobbying from the Netherlands, which has faced legal challenges over its nitrogen emissions.
While the Commission’s “Vision for Agriculture” paper sees Renure as a potential win for both the environment and agriculture, green groups such as WWF have raised concerns. They argue that the EU is not doing enough to reduce pesticide and fertilizer use overall, which continues to threaten water quality and public health. As FT reports, the Commission is working to strike a balance between promoting more sustainable fertilizers and addressing the ongoing challenges of nutrient management and emissions reductions in agriculture.
