Fertilizer in pellet form
from sheep shearing
The problem
The hair from sheep shearing is a product in Greece that remains unused and ends up in the garbage or simply burned. By processing it, the farmer can market yet another product. In addition, lower quality products are upgraded and a piece is added to the processing of products.
The MACC solution
Following an econometric study carried out by the scientific team of the MACC’s Mediterranean Agri-Food Competence Centre, they evaluated the alternatives for the utilisation of sheep wool and discovered that it can be processed to produce fertiliser in pellet form with attractive prospects for further development. He decided to work with Proudfarm to jointly produce a small amount of fertiliser in pellet form and move forward:
- the response check from potential customers
- in the evaluation of its effectiveness as a fertiliser
- the creation of a wool collection network
- the establishment of a fertiliser manufacturing plant
MACC partner companies participated in this action:
The collaboration resulted in the innovative Fertiwool fertilizer made from 100% Greek sheep wool, which is a unique product that can be used in any type of cultivation. From the first measurements it seems to be rich in nutrients and has the ability to retain water and swell, thus requiring less watering, up to 30% less watering and creating a better soil structure. It requires only one application every six months as it releases its ingredients slowly. It is also 100% biodegradable.
The organic sheep wool fertilizer is a 100% circular economy product.
