5. Inoculants, ferments, and composts: alternatives for more sustainable agriculture

Abstract

The supply of essential nutrients for plant growth depends primarily on fertilization. The high yields and crop quality that sustain the world’s food supply have been achieved through chemical fertilizers (also known as mineral, inorganic, or synthetic fertilizers), which contain high concentrations of primary nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) in the form of inorganic salts. Although these fertilizers are effective, their intensive and prolonged use has contributed to the degradation of agricultural soils. In addition, the constant rise in the cost of these inputs undermines the sustainability of agricultural production. Given this situation, the development, evaluation, and promotion of biofertilizers and organic fertilizers which, being derived from plant, animal, or other organic compounds, as well as microorganisms, offer viable and environmentally friendly alternatives. Biofertilizers, such as inoculants, and organic fertilizers, such as ferments and compost, increase soil fertility some of them by providing nutrients—while also improving soil microbial biodiversity and promoting plant growth by enhancing nutrient availability and absorption. Based on the above, the implementation of these products is a viable alternative for food production.