Organic compounds are gaining ground as allies in enhancing the efficiency of mineral fertilizers.

Brazilian agriculture has achieved a prominent position worldwide thanks to its ability to produce on a large scale, even in the face of climatic, logistical, and economic challenges. However, one point of concern remains: the high dependence on imported fertilizers, which are essential for maintaining crop productivity.

In this context, there is growing interest in technologies capable of increasing the efficiency of mineral fertilizer use and contributing to soil fertility. Organic compounds are gaining relevance due to their ability to directly improve the physical, chemical, and biological conditions of the productive environment.

The discussion about soil fertility can no longer be limited to just the volume of nutrients applied. Researchers, consultants, and producers recognize the importance of building more resilient agricultural systems, capable of making better use of inputs and maintaining high levels of productivity over time.

Organic compounds play an important role in this process. When produced from suitable raw materials and subjected to controlled composting processes, they become sources of stabilized organic matter, contributing to improved soil structure, increased water retention capacity, stimulation of microbiological activity, and greater efficiency in the use of nutrients provided by mineral fertilizers.

Unlike a simplistic view that compares organic compounds solely by their nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) content, their main value lies in their ability to improve the functioning of the production system. The point is to enhance the results of mineral fertilizers.

Several studies demonstrate that soils with higher levels of organic matter exhibit greater cation exchange capacity (CEC), better particle aggregation, lower susceptibility to compaction, and greater nutrient retention. These factors favor root development in plants and help reduce losses due to leaching, increasing the efficiency of investments made in fertilization.

This approach becomes even more important in the context of extreme weather events. Soils with better physical and biological conditions tend to have a greater capacity to withstand periods of drought, heavy rainfall, and temperature fluctuations, contributing to the productive stability of crops.

Beyond the agronomic benefits, organic compounds represent an opportunity to expand the use of waste generated by agro-industrial and urban chains. Materials that were previously seen only as environmental liabilities can be transformed into value-added inputs, acting as a catalyst for the circular economy and generating fertility within the territory itself.

Brazil has favorable conditions for this evolution. It possesses one of the largest agricultural sectors in the world, ample availability of organic waste, accumulated technical knowledge, and a growing demand for solutions that reconcile productivity and sustainability.

In this context, organic compounds should be understood as part of an integrated nutritional management strategy. Their role is to complement the action of mineral fertilizers, contributing to more efficient, resilient agricultural systems that are less vulnerable to global geopolitical fluctuations.

The future of Brazilian soil fertility depends on the integration of different technologies. More than just an alternative, organic compounds are establishing themselves as a strategic tool to increase the efficiency of nutrient use, strengthen soil fertility, and contribute to the competitiveness of Brazilian agriculture.

*Per Fernando Carvalho Oliveira, agricultural engineer and managing partner of Biossolo Agricultura & Ambiente Ltda, Fernanda Latanze Mendes, agricultural engineer and technical coordinator of Abisolo, and Kátia Goldschmidt Beltrame, agricultural engineer and consultant at MK2R