Applications of dairy wastewater as a fertilizer to agricultural land : an environmental management perspective

[摘要] As with any form of intensive agriculture, there are potential environmental impactsassociated with the management and housing of livestock on dairy farms. Within thefield of dairy farming, particular focus falls to the issue of environmental degradationof water resources, as this form of pollution is currently a major environmental issuearound the world. Conventional agricultural practices involving the application ofchemical fertilizers to land and crops are causing environmental problems as a result ofpoor management practices. Dairy wastewater and manures could however be avaluable resource for agricultural producers in the form of an alternate fertilizer fortheir crops. Waste application as a fertilizer is more environmentally friendly thanchemical fertilizers, and could drastically reduce costs for farmers, whilst alleviatingstorage and management problems often associated with farmyard manures (FYM).The application of organic wastes, notably livestock manures, to land has historicallybeen important for maintaining soil fertility on farms in terms of nutrient status andorganic matter levels, as well as helping to reduce soil erosion and improve waterholdingcapacity. The research sought to investigate the environmental and economicalfeasibility of using dairy wastewater and manures as an alternative form of fertilizerwithin agriculture in South Africa.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University