In an agri-food system pressured by energy costs and external dependency, transforming waste into resources has become a priority. In this scenario, Pressgold emerges, a startup created in 2021 in Lower Austria that found a concrete solution to a historical problem with an organic fertilizer based on chicken manure.
Each year, the company reuses about 1,000 tons of poultry manure and wood waste. Thus, materials that are difficult to manage become useful inputs for agriculture and energy.
In this way, the circular economy ceases to be an abstract concept and translates into regional practices of low impact.
From manure to stable fertilizer
Intensive poultry farming generates large volumes of manure continuously. Prolonged storage causes emissions, bad odors, and loss of valuable nutrients for the soil.
In response, Pressgold applies a drying, conditioning, and pelletizing process. The result is a hygienized organic fertilizer, stable and easy to transport. Additionally, the reduced volume and controlled dosage allow for a more efficient use in the field.
Benefits of organic fertilizer for the soil
The use of organic fertilizers improves soil structure and increases its water retention capacity. In turn, it stimulates microbial activity, key for long-term fertility.
These pellets provide nutrients gradually, reducing leaching losses. As a result, crops make better use of the applied inputs.
Therefore, organic fertilizer positions itself as a central tool for a more resilient and sustainable agriculture.
Less dependency on mineral fertilizers
While they do not completely replace synthetic fertilizers, organic pellets allow for reduced use. This implies a lower demand for inputs whose production depends on natural gas.
Being a local product, it also shortens transport distances. Thus, regional economies and agricultural sovereignty are strengthened. Overall, the model provides stability to producers and reduces associated environmental impacts.
Institutional support and regional scale
The project sparked interest beyond the agricultural sector. Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner visited the facilities of Pressgold and its industrial partner Ritt GmbH, highlighting the strategic value of the circular approach.
Austria is reviewing its agricultural policies to reduce imports and emissions. In this context, initiatives like this gain relevance. Therefore, local cooperation becomes a key axis of the ecological transition.
Renewable energy with wood pellets
In addition to fertilizer, Pressgold produces wood pellets from local sawmill waste. This biomass is used for heating and energy purposes without competing with food.
Since 2024, the company has its own silo truck, which improves logistics and reduces intermediaries. Thus, the energy circle is also closed on a regional scale.
Sustained environmental impact
The valorization of manure reduces ammonia emissions and greenhouse gases. At the same time, it decreases pressure on landfills and soils.
In parallel, the use of local biomass replaces fossil fuels. It is not a spectacular solution, but it is constant and effective.
Ultimately, converting problematic waste into useful resources demonstrates that sustainability works when integrated into the productive reality.
