UNITED Utilities, the Warrington-based water company, is flushed with success after its scientists perfected a method to turn sewage into odourless fertiliser pellets which can boost crop yields for farmers.
They spent 2½ years perfecting the technique and in trials at Fields Farm, in Broxton, Cheshire, the pellets out-performed traditional fertilisers when growing high- value crops such as maize and rape seed – and gave off less CO².
United Utilities’ technology development manager, Dr Son Le, said: “The product has enormous potential. The UK generates millions of tonnes of sludge every year, so finding safe, environmentally-friendly ways to dispose of the material is a must.
“It is also lightweight, odourless and can be stored for years, making it a practical and cost-effective solution for farmers.”
Richard Tomlinson, from Fields Farm, said: “I’ve been very impressed.
“The product is easy to use and generates excellent yields. I see no reason why it can't take off more widely.”
