There is no doubt that agriculture needs innovation for sustainable intensification and avoiding environmental degradation. A circular economy will replace the current linear economy for a world without waste and pollution. Ongoing nutrient pollution from inefficient fertilisers is a global problem that demands resolution. The re-purposing and retrieval of nutrients from wastes as fertilisers and soil ameliorants has potential to improve sanitation and turn costly waste treatment or landfill into economic gain. Formulating repurposed nutrients into next-generation fertilisers that better supply crops, preserve soil health and avoid off-site pollution is a challenge that requires interdisciplinary collaboration. I will discuss the brief history of fertilisers, highlight what next-generation fertilisers may look like, and the challenges and opportunities for toxicology experts to engage with this topic.
Prof Susanne is an agro-biologist and educator at UQ. She leads a vibrant team across agriculture and ecology with focus on nutrient cycling and sustainable land use.
https://agriculture.uq.edu.au/profile/389/susanne-schmidt