Case Study: Silverwoods Waste Management
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The value of soil
Back in 2017, the UK’s Environment Secretary Michael Gove warned that the UK was 30 to 40 years away from “the fundamental eradication of soil fertility”. We can no longer treat soil like dirt, but instead must appreciate the natural capital it provides for eco-systems, carbon storage and future food security. Understanding how to maintain healthy soil is essential.
It was around 10,000 years ago when humans began growing plants. Fast-forward to the modern day and human existence remains dependent on our ability to feed ourselves. With the world’s population set to reach 8.6 billion by 2030, we now commonly use pesticides, slurry and fertilisers to match soaring food demands. This is unsustainable and our soil urgently needs some TLC.
Silverwoods Waste Management Limited has identified a waste product as a potential soil treatment and crop enhancer, and is now part-way through a 3 year PhD research collaboration with the Centre for Global Eco-Innovation at Lancaster University. The UK produces 100,000 tonnes of waste cement bypass dust (BPD) every year, which typically goes to landfill. Silverwoods has recognised this waste material as a potential alternative to fertilisers and lime, due to its alkalising properties and high potassium content. Together, we’re investigating the benefits of utilizing this waste within UK agriculture, both to sustainably manage soil health and acidity and to increase crop yields.
Silverwoods is at the forefront of innovative waste management with a passion for developing sustainable solutions for the management of soil fertility. Double winners at the 2019 Red Rose Awards, their goal is to help clients achieve zero landfill within six months of managing a contract.
Julian Silverwood, Managing Director at Silverwoods Waste Management Ltd says, “Working with the Centre for Global Eco-Innovation has allowed us to take steps in producing research-led products that provide sustainable alternatives to conventional agricultural management practices. Obtaining a greater understanding of the environmental effects of applying BPD within agricultural situations will undoubtedly provide Silverwoods with a commercial advantage. We will be able to provide a more informed explanation of the benefits of BPD application, allowing us to increase the sale value of our products. ”
Research indicates that this product works well and could lead to higher crop yields, improved soil health and reduced waste going to landfill.
Rachel Baxter, Graduate Researcher says, “The most exciting part is being able to research novel methods of managing soil fertility with partners who are dedicated to improving the sustainability of modern agriculture. The expertise within Silverwoods, their industry connections and passion has led to a greater appreciation of the need to develop circular approach to how we manage our waste.”
SILVERWOODS WASTE MANAGEMENT
Silverwoods Waste Management offers services in consultancy and environmental permitting, in-vessel composting, land spreading of industrial waste and total waste management. The business has won numerous awards including Lancashire’s Rural Business, Green Business and Small Business. Silverwoods are currently managing over 350,000t/yr of a wide range of wastes including lime wastes produced from the cement industry.
PROJECT
The UK cement manufacturing industry produces approximately 100,000 tonnes of waste cement bypass dust (CBD) annually. Currently, CBD is usually disposed of in landfill, but it is increasingly being recognised for its potential to replace conventional fertilisers or lime in agriculture. This project characterised how CBD from different sources can be used most effectively. The project also re-assessed liming recommendations, since current DEFRA recommendations for lime application may not be appropriate for all soil types. Incorrect liming locks-up nutrients that are essential for crop growth, thus negating potential agricultural benefits. The research will allow CBD to be used as a resource in farming instead being dumped as a waste-product.
RACHEL BAXTER
Rachel has a first class honours degree in Horticultural Science and Management from Myerscough College. She is aiming to develop a career in research focusing on the topics of crop science and sustainability. Rachel is hoping to gain more experience in experimental design and plant physiology over the coming years.
Lead Academic Supervisor: Prof Ian Dodd
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