European Sustainable Nutrient Initiative (ESNI)
The European Sustainable Nutrient Initiative (ESNI) is a European platform that promotes sustainable nutrient management by fostering collaboration among researchers, industry, policymakers, and the agricultural sector. Coordinated by BETA Technological Center, Ghent University and IMPACT, as part of the Biorefine Cluster Europe, ESNI aims to advance nutrient recycling technologies and close nutrient loops across Europe.
Launched in 2019, ESNI currently connects 22 (research) projects and has engaged numerous stakeholders, from diverse sectors, including academia, agri-tech companies, environmental organisations, and public institutions, through its conference and its communication and dissemination activities. Its mission is to support the transition towards a circular economy by improving the recovery and reuse of nutrients from biobased waste streams, such as manure, wastewater, and food waste.
To address the complexity of nutrient management, ESNI operates through four thematic working groups:
- Nutrient Recovery Technologies
- Agronomic Performance of Circular Fertilisers
- Sustainability Assessment
- Policy and Regulation
These groups facilitate knowledge exchange, organise events and webinars, and help identify research needs and policy opportunities.
ESNI contributes to the EU climate and environmental goals by promoting the adoption of innovative practices, aligning scientific progress with market needs, and supporting informed policymaking. It plays a key role in shaping the future of nutrient use in agriculture, reducing dependency on mineral fertilisers, and minimising nutrient losses to the environment.
