Organic fertilisers (especially manure, slurry and dung) are a very good source of, among other things, nitrogen. However, their improper storage can cause significant losses of this valuable macronutrient for plants.
These losses are reflected not only in a reduction in fertiliser efficiency, but also in the emission of unwanted gases into the atmosphere. Firstly, the placement of organic fertilisers on a leaking soil causes valuable components to leak and seep into the ground. Secondly, a poorly stacked manure pile and prolonged storage of any animal manures promote the escape of nitrogen, mainly in the form of ammonia. This unfavourable process is encouraged by open and ventilated tanks. Estimates indicate that inadequate storage of livestock manures results in nitrogen losses of up to 30%.