Fraunhofer IGB Develops Hemp-Based Biodegradable Fertilizer to Reduce Overfertilization and Protect Soil and Water

Fraunhofer IGB Develops Hemp-Based Biodegradable Fertilizer to Reduce Overfertilization and Protect Soil and Water

(IN BRIEF) Fraunhofer IGB is developing a biodegradable, plant-specific fertilizer through its HanAkku project to combat the environmental damage caused by overfertilization. Using hemp shives as a natural carrier, the fertilizer delivers nutrients in a controlled, slow-release manner tailored to plant needs, reducing nitrogen runoff, soil degradation and water pollution. The process uses environmentally friendly solvents and avoids harmful residues such as microplastics, while also improving soil moisture retention and contributing to humus formation. Early trials, including successful bell pepper cultivation, show strong potential, and researchers aim to bring the solution to agricultural and horticultural markets following final optimization.

(PRESS RELEASE) MUNICH, 1-Apr-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Fraunhofer IGB is developing a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers aimed at reducing overfertilization and its environmental impact, including soil degradation and water contamination.

Excessive use of nitrogen-based fertilizers in agriculture remains a major issue, contributing to groundwater pollution, soil acidification, biodiversity loss and greenhouse gas emissions. In Germany alone, around 1.5 million tons of reactive nitrogen are released annually, much of it linked to agricultural practices.

To address this, researchers at Fraunhofer IGB in Straubing are working on the HanAkku project, which focuses on creating a biodegradable, plant-specific fertilizer. According to Melanie Iwanow, the goal is to supply crops with only the nutrients they require, in precisely controlled amounts, thereby avoiding nutrient excess and improving environmental outcomes.

The innovation is based on hemp shives—the inner core of the hemp stalk—an agricultural byproduct that has traditionally seen limited use. Due to their naturally porous structure, hemp shives can absorb significant amounts of liquid, making them ideal carriers for nutrients. Researchers are leveraging this property to create a slow-release fertilizer that delivers nutrients gradually over time.

The process involves dissolving essential plant nutrients in environmentally friendly deep eutectic solvents (DES), which are then absorbed into the hemp material. Once applied to soil, the nutrients are released in a controlled manner, ensuring plants receive a steady supply tailored to their needs. As nutrients are released, the structure of the hemp shives also helps retain water in the soil, offering added benefits during dry periods.

Unlike conventional slow-release fertilizers, which may leave behind microplastics or harmful residues, the HanAkku solution is fully biodegradable. Over time, it decomposes and contributes to humus formation, further enhancing soil quality.

The research team has already demonstrated promising results, successfully cultivating bell pepper seedlings using the new fertilizer. The project, which is set to conclude this year, is now entering its final development phase, with researchers optimizing nutrient release rates and preparing for potential adoption in agriculture and horticulture.

Fraunhofer IGB will present samples of the fertilizer and results from plant trials at Hannover Messe, showcasing its potential as an environmentally friendly alternative for both large-scale farming and home gardening.

Media Contact:

Dr. Claudia Vorbeck
Communications
Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB
Nobelstr. 12
70569 Stuttgart
Phone +49 711 970-4031
Fax +49 711 970-4200
claudia.vorbeck@igb.fraunhofer.de

SOURCE: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft