10148059Sustainable Encapsulation and Nutrient Optimisation foR Agriculture (SENORA)ActiveGrant for R&DInnovate UK**Public description** This project 'SENORA', led by Cleobury, focuses on developing a sustainable, nutrient-rich fertiliser created from food-waste digestate and waste eggshell s. Our innovative approach uses advanced spray-drying and encapsulation techniques to transform local agricultural by-products into a highly effective fertiliser that meets the growing demand for eco-friendly, resource-efficient solutions in farming. The fertiliser is designed to address key challenges in agriculture: enhancing soil health, providing reliable nutrient retention, and reducing environmental impacts of traditional synthetic fertilisers. By incorporating eggshell powder as a natural stabiliser, our formulation improves nitrogen retention and adds beneficial calcium, balancing soil pH and supporting optimal crop growth. This approach offers a cost-effective alternative to synthetic fertilisers while supporting farmers' goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt circular economy practices. The storage and use of organic materials, such as digestate, are regulated under the Control of Agricultural Pollution (Wales) Regulations and Nitrate Pollution Prevention Regulations. This project aligns with these frameworks by ensuring the fertiliser meets regulatory standards for nutrient content and environmental safety. Additionally, the spray-dried product reduces water content, leading to lower storage and transport costs and easier application. Transforming waste into a dry, stable product overcomes logistical challenges of liquid digestate and traditional fertilisers. Our project aligns with Welsh Government (WG) policies, including the WG's Innovation Strategy for Wales, Sustainable Farming Scheme, and Food and Drink Vision. By using waste streams to create a valuable agricultural product, we contribute to fostering resource efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and resilient food systems within Wales. Furthermore, this project supports economic growth in Mid and North Wales, particularly rural and underserved communities, by creating demand for local waste resources and strengthening agricultural supply chains. The project will involve local field trials with early adopters in Mid Wales to assess the fertiliser's impact on soil health, nutrient retention, and crop yield. In collaboration with research centres and agricultural stakeholders, we will conduct comprehensive testing to ensure the fertiliser meets high standards for quality and environmental sustainability. By the end of the project, we aim to have a market-ready fertiliser enabling Welsh farmers to access a sustainable alternative to synthetic options, positioning Mid and North Wales as a leader in innovative, eco-friendly agricultural solutions. This project demonstrates advanced agri-tech methods while serving as a model for sustainable product development, contributing to long-term environmental and economic benefits for agriculture in Mid and North Wales and beyond.