Lignite – a natural source of organic matter and its impact on soil health (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Soil, a vital non-renewable resource, plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth. However, soil ionic imbalances, water eutrophication, and crop contamination pose significant challenges to agricultural systems. This study investigates the potential of lignite, an unconventional source of organic matter, as a sustainable alternative to high-dose mineral fertilizers. The research draws upon an extensive literature review and experimental data, considering both the chemistry of humus compounds in lignite and the formation of mineral-organic combinations that influence soil productive properties. The methodology involved analyzing the physical and chemical characteristics of lignite, including its types, genesis, global distribution, and chemical composition. Additionally, various lignite-based fertilizer blends, such as humic-mineral mixtures, nitrohumin-mineral blends, and humin-micronutrient mixtures, were evaluated for their efficacy in promoting soil health and crop yields. The results demonstrate the significant potential of lignite as a source of organic matter for soil amendment. Lignite-based fertilizers exhibited improved soil structure, enhanced nutrient availability, and increased water-holding capacity. Furthermore, the application of these fertilizers led to higher crop yields and reduced heavy metal uptake by plants, indicating their effectiveness in soil remediation and environmental protection. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of exploring unconventional sources of organic matter, such as lignite, to address the challenges of soil degradation and ensure sustainable agricultural production. The findings underscore the need for adopting lignite-based fertilizers as part of an integrated soil management strategy, promoting soil health, crop productivity, and environmental conservation.