NENUPHAR D2.1. Successful practices for nutrient pollution management

Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are essential nutrients for plant growth and are widely used as fertilisers in agriculture to increase crop yields and ensure food quality. However, the growing demand for food has led to a significant increase in fertiliser production and use, often with considerable inefficiencies. As a result, large amounts of nutrients are lost to the environment, causing pollution of water, air, and soil and posing risks to ecosystems and human health.

The NENUPHAR project aims to address these challenges by developing new governance models and value chain solutions that support the transition towards circular nutrient management. Governance in this context refers to a decentralized and collaborative approach involving multiple actors, including policymakers, researchers, farmers, NGOs, and private organisations, working together in decision-making and implementation processes.

The analysis highlights several barriers within existing governance systems, such as fragmented institutional frameworks, lack of legislative harmonisation, bureaucratic procedures, and limited stakeholder involvement. At the same time, success factors include improved coordination between ministries, stakeholder collaboration, effective communication with farmers, and the use of scientific tools such as nutrient flow modelling.

Overall, the study shows that successful governance requires national-level legal frameworks combined with locally adapted implementation strategies and strong stakeholder participation to promote sustainable nutrient management.