Clean and green with 'eco-n'

Abstract

Lincoln University and Ravensdown Fertiliser Co-operative have developed a new soil treatment technology, called 'eco-n' technology, that can reduce the environmental impacts of dairy farming and at the same time help farmers to grow more grass. Research shows that eco-n can: reduce nitrate leaching by 60 per cent; reduce potassium, calcium and magnesium leaching by more than 50 per cent; reduce nitrous oxide emissions (a potent greenhouse gas) by 80 per cent; and increase pasture production by over 10 - 12 per cent per year. This paper will cover the science behind the eco-n technology and the practical application and economics of using eco-n technology.