Installation of a woodchip bioreactor as an area specific approach to reduce nitrate loads from agriculture.

“According to the Water Framework Directive, water bodies should be in good ecological and chemical status by 2027. One of the main pollutants in agricultural areas is nitrate. In the South-eastern part of the Netherlands, nitrate concentrations often exceed the limit values in surface water. Area-specific measures need to be taken to protect the water quality. A way to reduce nitrate emissions from agricultural fields is the installation of woodchip bioreactors which are connected to tile drainage systems. Internationally, for example in Denmark, Belgium and the USA, this method has proven to be very effective in reducing nitrate concentrations in drainage water. However, when residence times are too high, negative side effects may prevail. This includes the production of nitrous oxides, sulfide and ammonia, and leaching of heavy metals.”

(Citaat: Driezum, I.H. van, Loon, A.H. van, Jansen, S., et.al. – Installation of a woodchip bioreactor as an area specific approach to reduce nitrate loads from agriculture – Land Use and Water Quality Agriculture and the Environment – Aarhus, Denmark, 3-6 June 2025, p. 148 – no. 175)