The Unlikely Fix for a Fragile Fertilizer Market

Rising costs and tighter rules push US fertilizer firms to turn farm waste into a local, reliable nutrient source

5 Jan 2026

The US fertiliser industry is beginning a cautious shift towards circular nutrient systems as companies face higher input costs, tighter environmental regulation and fragile global supply chains. What was once seen as experimental is now being examined as a practical option by a small but growing group of producers.

The approach centres on recovering nutrients from manure and other agricultural waste and turning them into usable fertiliser. Sedron Technologies has drawn attention for systems that extract nitrogen and phosphorus while also producing clean water, allowing farms to convert waste into inputs rather than liabilities.

The interest reflects broader pressure on the sector. Fertiliser markets have been shaped in recent years by volatile energy prices, trade uncertainty and supply disruptions, prompting producers to look for ways to reduce exposure to external suppliers. Local nutrient recovery offers one route to greater cost control and predictability.

Industry bodies and research organisations are also studying the potential role of recycled nutrients. Initiatives highlighted by Fertilizer.org are examining how recovered materials could, over time, complement conventional fertiliser production rather than replace it.

Analysts say the economics are becoming clearer. Large livestock and crop operations generate waste rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, much of which is lost through runoff or storage. Capturing those nutrients earlier can reduce pollution and create a local source of fertiliser, lowering transport needs and input costs for farmers.

Regulation is another driver. Oversight of nutrient runoff and agricultural emissions is increasing at both state and federal levels, although rules governing waste-derived fertilisers remain uneven and continue to evolve. Technologies that reduce pollution while maintaining yields are therefore attracting interest from regulators as well as farm operators. Sedron has positioned its systems as a way for farms to prepare for tighter standards without sacrificing productivity.

Supply chain resilience adds to the appeal. On-site fertiliser production reduces dependence on long-distance transport and imported inputs, offering large operations greater control over supply.

Significant hurdles remain, including upfront investment, operational changes and questions over scaling and standardisation. Even so, momentum is building as more projects move beyond pilot stages.

Turning waste into a resource is no longer framed solely as an environmental goal. For parts of the US fertiliser market, it is emerging as a strategic option to support resilience and longer-term stability.