A groundbreaking technology utilising the power of lightning to create fertiliser has the potential to significantly impact agriculture, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance soil health. Collaborating with innovative start-up Debye Ltd., the UK’s Agri-Tech Centres are currently trialling this transformative system, which emulates lightning’s ability to capture nitrogen in the form of nitrates upon striking water.
Dr. Burak Karadag, the visionary behind this remarkable technology, has transitioned from being a space engineer focusing on satellite propulsion to developing a process that replicates the nitrogen-fixing capabilities of lightning. This innovative approach aims to provide farmers with on-the-spot or local supply of nitrate-based fertiliser using only air, water, and electricity.
According to Dr. Karadag, current fertiliser production methods cause environmental harm and are susceptible to market disruption. He explained, “Our technology harnesses nature’s own elegant solution by replicating the nitrogen-fixing process of lightning strikes using only air, water, and electricity. This has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote better soil health outcomes, as compared to conventional ammonia-based fertilisers.”
Additionally, the production of synthetic fertilisers contributes to five per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to half the total emissions produced by the EU27 in 2021. Dr. Karadag stressed the importance of addressing climate change and enhancing food security through innovation, underscoring the urgency of transitioning towards more sustainable agricultural practices.
Dr. Harry Langford, the Innovation Network Lead at CHAP, also highlighted the significance of diversification in practice and technological innovation to improve production and application efficiency of fertilisers. He stressed the need to establish an evidence base for novel technologies in order to support their adoption and facilitate a smooth transition for UK farmers and growers.
The collaboration between the Agri-Tech Centres and Debye Ltd. represents a significant step towards testing the feasibility of this revolutionary technology and determining its value proposition. By providing support for the adoption of innovative technologies, the Agri-Tech Centres are contributing to the advancement of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
In conclusion, the potential impact of lightning-based fertiliser technology on agriculture, climate change, and soil health is undeniably significant. This pioneering approach has the capacity to revolutionise the way fertilisers are produced and supplied, offering a sustainable and locally available solution that aligns with the increasing global demand for environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
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