Nousbo and SK Leaveo partner to develop biodegradable fertilizers

Nousbo Co., Ltd., a South Korean company recognized for its advanced controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) technology, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SK Leaveo, a subsidiary of SKC focused on eco-friendly materials. This partnership aims to develop and commercialize biodegradable CRFs that align with sustainable agricultural practices.

The MOU, signed at SKC’s headquarters, builds on Nousbo’s credentials as a KOSDAQ-listed innovator in CRF technology. Their technology is particularly noted for its ability to adjust nutrient release according to the specific growth curves of crops, thus enhancing efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The CRFs developed by Nousbo not only decrease the need for frequent application, thereby saving labor, but also minimize over-fertilization, which can lead to soil salinization and increased greenhouse gas emissions.

SK leaveo will contribute its expertise by developing biodegradable resins to coat these fertilizers, with a product launch targeted for the first quarter of 2025. These resins are expected to set new benchmarks in both domestic and international markets by offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic coatings used in fertilizer production.

The collaboration extends beyond development to encompass a strategic alignment with global market trends, leveraging Nousbo’s strengths in production and marketing. This initiative also complements SK leaveo’s recent foray into producing PBAT, a biodegradable plastic, at its new plant in Vietnam’s Haiphong Economic Zone, which boasts an annual capacity of 70,000 tons.

As global demand for sustainable agricultural solutions grows, Nousbo is expanding its production capabilities, recently enhancing its output to 20,000 tons annually. In response to regulatory trends in Europe and other regions that increasingly favor eco-friendly practices, the company is also engaging in comprehensive research with the Rural Development Administration to further refine their biodegradable resin-coated fertilizer technology. Through these efforts, Nousbo aims to lead in the global shift towards sustainable agriculture and strengthen its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.