ORGANIC FERTILIZER AN ALTERNATIVE TO CHEMICAL (INORGANIC) FERTILIZER FOR SUSTAINABLE SOIL PRODUCTIVITY IN THE ERA OF ECONOMIC CHALLENGES (A REVIEW)

Abstract

The major constraint limiting crop yield in developing countries globally and especially in the tropical Africa is soil infertility. In order to improve the fertility of the soils for maximum food production and supplies, the use of inorganic (chemical) fertilizers was adopted and used extensively. However, the scarcity and high cost of the inorganic fertilizers in recent times due to economic and global challenges like covid 19 pandemic and wars is worrisome. Also, research has shown that the continuous use of inorganic fertilizer and total dependence on it for agricultural production have led to a decline in soil fertility, land degradation and rottening of certain crops especially tubers, hence the need for an alternative. This review work studies the need of producing organic fertilizers from various organic wastes (such as agricultural waste, sewage sludge, animal waste, municipal solid waste, food waste, etc) as alternative soil amendment using the technology advancement for solid organic waste management as obtained in the developed countries. This when adopted will not only enhance and sustain soil productivity but will help to free the environment of pollution and encourage economic growth. The work also provides insight to the production line of the organic fertilizer, sources or raw materials and advantages of substituting chemical (inorganic) fertilizer with organic fertilizer. It is obvious that organic fertilizer when produced will be affordable, available, cheaper and will improve and sustain the physical, chemical and biological conditions of the soils.