The main objective of these new regulations is to promote rational and efficient fertilisation of crops, in order to guarantee the productive and environmental sustainability of agriculture. This initiative is in line with the European “Farm to Fork” strategy, which seeks to make food production more sustainable throughout the European Union.
After more than a year of implementation, the Government has decided to reform the original decree to facilitate the adoption of sustainable practices in the nutrition of agricultural soils. The main modifications include the simplification of technical aspects, the improvement of coherence with other regulations, such as the Law on waste and contaminated soils for a circular economy, and the clarification of key provisions for farmers and ranchers.
One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of incentives for the use of the digital farm notebook, which will now be optional. This digital notebook will allow farmers to more efficiently record information related to the fertilization plan, such as the precise determination of fertilizer doses.
The new regulations also introduce clearer provisions to reduce ammonia emissions and promote technologies that reduce the risk of leaching, a process that can contaminate soil and groundwater.
In addition, the obligations related to the use of manure, fertilizers and other organic materials are being made more flexible. Among the modifications, the period allowed for stacking manure is being extended from 5 to 10 days, which can be up to 20 days if the material has been composted or digested. The period for burying these materials is also being extended to 24 hours, thus facilitating their handling and application in the fields.
These changes are part of the Government’s commitment to improve the efficiency and profitability of agriculture, in a context where fertilizer prices have reached high levels. Rational soil fertilization is not only essential to protect the environment, but is also key to ensuring the economic viability of farmers.
The new Royal Decree reflects the Executive’s intention to continue supporting the agricultural sector, in collaboration with organisations such as the Union of Small Farmers and Ranchers (UPA) and the Union of Farmers and Ranchers Unions, to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for Spanish agriculture.
