FERTCAFE Operational Group: Development of a new sustainable fertilizer through the incorporation of coffee grounds

Valorizing coffee grounds brings with it a series of benefits associated with their potential as fertilizer. This project aims to reduce dependence on fossil-based fertilizers in favor of these new biofertilizers. Therefore, the amount of biofertilizer needed per hectare of agricultural land has been identified. Furthermore, it also represents an improvement in the economy and circularity of the coffee production process by generating added value and a new business model. Soil degradation is a global problem that affects the productivity and sustainability of agricultural systems. Intensive exploitation, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and soil erosion have led to the loss of essential nutrients, a decrease in organic matter, and soil compaction. This reduces the water and nutrient retention capacity, limiting healthy plant growth and development.

On the other hand, water scarcity is a major challenge in agriculture, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Limited water availability makes plant cultivation difficult and reduces agricultural productivity. In this regard, soil moisture retention is crucial to ensure an adequate supply of water to plants and minimize the need for irrigation. New fertilizers developed to address these issues seek to improve soil health by enriching it with essential nutrients and increasing its organic matter content. This encourages microbial activity and improves soil structure, promoting greater moisture and nutrient retention.

In this regard, the development of fertilizers from coffee has sparked growing interest in the scientific and agricultural communities in recent years. Although still considered an emerging field of study, significant progress has been made in the understanding and application of fertilizers derived from coffee grounds.