A nitrogen-based fertiliser with an approximate 60% lower carbon footprint, compared to conventional fertilisers, has been launched by OCI Global.
Nutramon Novo is produced using biomethane, a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. “Our new lower carbon fertiliser combines 50% nitrate nitrogen and 50% ammonium nitrogen, delivering both rapid uptake and long-lasting nutrition across all crops,” explains Sam Leadbeater, UK and Ireland sales manager for OCI Global.
“The characteristics of the product are the same as those of our existing flagship fertiliser, Nutramon, yet the carbon footprint involved in its production has been reduced by up to approximately 60%.
“This is because biomethane sourced from organic waste materials, such as food and garden waste, is used in the Nutramon Novo production process – rather than natural gas.”
As a result, there are fewer carbon emissions associated with the product, reducing the overall environmental footprint of crops grown with this fertiliser.
“Studies have shown that using Nutramon Novo on malting barley, instead of conventional nitrogen fertilisers, can reduce the total carbon footprint of a 750ml bottle of whisky by up to 10%,” Sam adds.
“At the same time, growers can be confident the 50/50 ratio of nitrate and ammonium nitrogen will deliver high nitrogen utilisation efficiency – minimising nitrogen losses to the soil and air, and enhancing environmental protection.”
Identifiable by its orange granules, Nutramon Novo delivers rapid absorption and an even spreading pattern. “The fertiliser also contains 4% magnesium oxide (MgO) and 6% calcium oxide (CaO),” says Sam. “Magnesium plays a crucial role in promoting nutrient absorption and enhancing leaf colour, while calcium improves soil pH, enhances nutrient retention and boosts crop quality.”
