An evaluation of nutrient recycling from livestock and poultry waste using struvite-enriched compost - A review

Abstract

The rapid expansion of livestock and poultry production has resulted in the generation of large quantities of organic waste, posing significant environmental challenges. Improper disposal leads to nutrient loss, eutrophication, greenhouse gas emissions, and public health concerns. Nutrient recovery from these wastes has emerged as a sustainable strategy within the framework of circular bioeconomy. Among various approaches, struvite (MgNH₄PO₄·6H₂O) precipitation integrated with composting has gained increasing attention due to its ability to recover nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) efficiently while improving compost quality. This review critically evaluates the mechanisms of struvite formation, integration with composting processes, agronomic benefits, environmental impacts, and economic feasibility. The findings suggest that struvite-enriched compost significantly reduces nutrient loss, enhances fertilizer efficiency, and offers a promising pathway for sustainable waste management. However, challenges related to cost, scalability, and process optimization remain. Future research should focus on field validation, life cycle assessment, and policy support to facilitate large-scale adoption.