Recycled Fertilisers in North-West Europe Horticulture

This report assesses the market potential for recycled organic fertilisers (RDFs) in the horticulture sector across North-West Europe (NWE), driven by rising fertiliser prices, supply chain disruptions from the Russia-Ukraine war and sanctions, and increasing sustainability awareness. It analyses fertiliser prices, sales, land use, and sectoral output across Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the UK. Key findings include sharp price increases—especially for urea and potash—since 2021, declining fertiliser sales in several NWE countries, and strong economic contributions from horticulture: €20 billion in ornamental plant turnover, 1.5 billion ornamental plants produced annually in Germany, and 3% of the UK’s agricultural area dedicated to horticulture. The Netherlands leads in high-tech greenhouse farming and global exports of flowers and vegetables. The report identifies a significant market gap for RDFs due to high mineral fertiliser costs and limited availability, with strong potential for adoption in sustainable agriculture. It concludes that RDFs can reduce reliance on imported mineral fertilisers, lower costs, and support the circular economy, particularly in light of EU policies like the Farm to Fork Strategy and the critical status of phosphorus as a finite resource. Data sources include Eurostat, national statistical offices, and sector-specific reports.