Composting

Composting biomass from peatland sites such as wet lowland peat meadows or in nature conservation areas can be an option for farmers and landowners to use biomass unsuitable for livestock feed and return organic matter and nutrients to arable or horticultural land after biomass has been composted. As transportation cost can be high, this business model is suitable for a localised application.

SUCCESS FACTORS

The link with carbon credits and blue credits would make rewetting more attractive for farmers as well. Another advantage of this business model is that it does not require farmers to make substantial changes when harvesting the biomass from the land. 

As in the business case of using biomass energetically, relationships between producers, plant operators and even customers are essential before introducing a new business case, especially as cultivation of fens requires adapted, lighter machinery and thus financial investment. 

CHALLENGES

Obstacles could arise from the question whether the whole area of lands can be rewetted or only the lowest parts of them, impairing CO2 reduction rates. However, this could be overcome by adapting the water infrastructure, including dams. In nature areas it also needs to be clarified whether harvesting is allowed in all seasons due to nature or biodiversity regulations. If it is not, mowing will need to be adjusted to regulatory frameworks. At the same time, composting biomass from rewetted peat areas to increase carbon stocks in arable land is subject to regional laws on nutrients and manure. Thus, farmers might be less willing to use biomass in this way. Yet, the involvement of experts of nutrient legislation in farms in the project will help to minimise national uncertainties. Additionally, on farm composting is subject to environmental laws, which in some cases makes it necessary to obtain an environmental permit including additional investment. In areas where rewetting will change hydrological conditions, and thus management practices substantially, adaptations to adjusted harvesting techniques might be needed, which again involves investment for farmers. Information required by farmers for the implementation of this business model comprises knowledge on the necessity to increase C-stock in arable land, not only in view of C-sequestration, but also in view of soil fertility and increasing water capacity; information on adapted machinery and technical aspects of composting; accessible subsidies or payments for nature conservation or ecosystem services (incl. carbon and blue credits); specific legislation, and not least on potential business opportunities and value chains for the different types of biomass.