How Photocatalytic Fertilisers Can Help UK Farmers Meet Net-Zero Goals

The UK agricultural sector is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions and adopt more sustainable practices. With the government aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and many farmers committing to earlier targets it's clear that innovation will play a central role in transforming how we farm. One breakthrough solution gaining attention is the photocatalytic fertiliser a passive, daylight-powered technology that could reshape nitrogen management and air pollution mitigation in agriculture.

What Are Photocatalytic Fertilisers?

Photocatalytic fertilisers use light-activated materials (typically titanium dioxide-based) to convert harmful nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) from the atmosphere into plant-available nitrate (NO₃⁻). These NOₓ gases emitted by vehicle exhausts, industrial processes, and agriculture itself are among the most damaging air pollutants. Instead of contributing to poor air quality and greenhouse gas emissions, photocatalytic technology captures and transforms them into usable nutrition for crops.

This process requires:

• Sunlight or UV-A exposure
  
• A coated surface (such as greenhouse walls, panels, or structures)
  
• Contact with NOₓ in the surrounding air
  

The result: a passive, energy-free system that supports plant growth while reducing environmental impact.

Why Nitrogen Is at the Centre of the Net-Zero Challenge

Nitrogen fertilisers, particularly synthetic variants, are a major source of agricultural emissions. The production of ammonium nitrate and urea is energy-intensive and emits large volumes of CO₂. On the field, these fertilisers can lead to nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions a potent greenhouse gas nearly 300 times more harmful than CO₂.

The challenge lies in reducing nitrogen-related emissions without compromising crop yields. That’s where photocatalytic fertilisers can make a meaningful difference.

How Photocatalytic Fertilisers Help Farmers Decarbonise

1. Reduce Emissions at the Source

By capturing NOₓ from the air and turning it into fertiliser, photocatalytic systems actively reduce localised pollution. This not only benefits farm workers and nearby communities but also contributes to improved national air quality metrics.

2. Cut Dependency on Synthetic Fertilisers

Every kilogram of nitrogen generated via photocatalysis is one less kilogram sourced from fossil-fuel-intensive fertiliser manufacturing. Over time, this helps farmers lower their carbon footprint and input costs simultaneously.

3. Passive, Renewable Action

Photocatalytic systems require no fuel, power supply, or active operation. Once applied, they continue working with only sunlight — ideal for sustainable farms seeking low-maintenance green technology.

4. Support Compliance with DEFRA & Future Regulations

As government policy evolves to regulate nitrogen runoff and fertiliser emissions more tightly, having low-emission alternatives will future-proof farms and help meet Environmental Land Management (ELM) goals and compliance frameworks.

5. Contribute to Carbon Reduction Reports

Photocatalytic nitrate technology may soon be recognised in carbon accounting frameworks — offering measurable offsets for NOₓ removal and synthetic fertiliser avoidance. This gives farmers quantifiable progress towards their net-zero strategies.

Real-World Application: What Does It Look Like?

In practice, photocatalytic coatings can be applied to farm infrastructure such as:

• Greenhouse glass or polycarbonate panels
  
• Irrigation channels and tunnels
  
• Storage sheds or fencing
  
• Custom mobile panels placed around fields
  

These surfaces passively process NOₓ while also receiving natural rainfall, which helps carry the nitrate into the soil for root uptake. Because the system integrates into existing structures, no major equipment investment is required.

A Sustainable Future Rooted in Innovation

UK farmers are already some of the most forward-thinking in the world when it comes to sustainability. Photocatalytic fertilisers offer an opportunity to take that leadership even further by turning harmful emissions into a growth solution.

At Noxto, we’re proud to be part of this movement. Our mission is to help the farming sector balance productivity with planet-positive practices and photocatalytic nitrate delivery is one of the most exciting tools in that mission.

Want to Learn More?

We’re currently working with growers, researchers, and sustainability-focused partners across the UK. If you're interested in trialling Noxto technology or learning how it fits into your net-zero strategy, get in touch today.