21/11/2024
Engaging stakeholders is fundamental to the successful implementation of innovative solutions in agriculture and environmental protection. Farmers, advisors, technologists, and wastewater treatment plant employees all bring valuable, practical perspectives that help address sector-specific needs and challenges. The workshop and study visit organised as part of the NOVAFERT project on August 27, 2024, in Rzeszów, Poland, demonstrated how collaboration between diverse groups of stakeholders can drive the development of alternative fertilisers.
Dialogue and knowledge exchange
The event brought together participants such as farmers, agricultural advisors, technologists, and employees of the Municipal Water and Sewage Company in Rzeszow, Poland. The workshop began with an introduction to the NOVAFERT project by Prof. Marzena Smol, who outlined the initiative’s objectives, such as developing sustainable fertiliser solutions aligned with EU environmental regulations.
A key highlight of the programme was the presentation of Glebex+, an innovative product produced from sewage sludge. This product exemplifies the practical application of circular economy principles. Participants had the opportunity to learn about both the technological details of the production process and the practical benefits of using Glebex+ in agriculture.
Study visit and stakeholder contributions
A study visit to the Municipal Water and Sewage Company facility followed, during which participants observed the production process of Glebex+ firsthand. Employees of the wastewater treatment plant, shared their expertise and insights into implementing environmentally friendly technologies.
The active involvement of technologists and other employees during the workshop added significant value, as they provided technical details and addressed participants’ questions about the application of alternative fertilisers.
Farmers, as end-users of fertilisers, also played a crucial role by sharing their perspectives and discussing their needs with the project team and advisors. Together with agricultural advisors, they engaged in discussions on the potential applications of Glebex+ in everyday farming practices. Participants also completed a survey, designed as part of the NOVAFERT project, to provide further feedback and insights for future project development.
Conclusion
The involvement of a broad range of stakeholders during the workshop and study visit was a cornerstone of the event’s success. Open dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration enabled the collection of valuable insights that will contribute to the further development of the NOVAFERT project. The joint efforts of farmers, technologists and wastewater treatment plant employees underscored the importance of combining theoretical knowledge with practical expertise.
The workshop and study visit highlighted that only through the active engagement of all stakeholders can innovative solutions be effectively implemented, paving the way for a more sustainable future in agriculture.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or [name of the granting authority]. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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