Core Insights - The implementation of "in-situ composting" technology for straw management in Jiangbei District provides a new solution for the resource utilization of straw [1][2] - The process involves stacking straw bales, applying urea and microbial agents, and covering them with black film for about 40 days to produce organic fertilizer [1] - The technology significantly reduces the cost of straw treatment by 30% to 50% compared to traditional methods, while also decreasing the need for chemical fertilizers [1] Group 1 - The new composting model requires only 10 square meters of land to process straw from 50 acres of farmland, making it operationally simple and cost-effective [1] - The internal structure of the composting reactor includes ventilation pipes and digital temperature monitoring, allowing for efficient fermentation and real-time data tracking [1] - The economic benefits of this technology are highlighted, with potential earnings of 1.4 million yuan if applied to just 1% of the available straw resources in Ningbo [2] Group 2 - The use of scientifically composted organic fertilizer not only mitigates air pollution from straw burning but also enhances soil organic matter and reduces chemical fertilizer usage [2] - In 2022, Ningbo collected 710,000 tons of straw, with 460,000 tons (65%) being utilized as fertilizer, indicating significant room for improvement in straw utilization rates [2] - The initiative aligns with agricultural carbon peak goals, promoting a green cycle in agricultural production while lowering costs [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of agricultural straw management in Henan Province, China, highlighting the shift from burning straw to utilizing it as a valuable resource, driven by policy changes, technological advancements, and changing attitudes among farmers [6][10][18]. Group 1: Current Situation and Statistics - Henan Province generates approximately 100 million tons of agricultural straw annually, ranking second in China [6]. - The comprehensive utilization rate of straw in Henan is stable at over 93%, surpassing the national average of 88.3% [14]. - In terms of utilization methods, fertilizer application through returning straw to the soil accounts for 74.4%, while feed utilization represents 21.3% [15]. Group 2: Historical Context and Policy Changes - Historically, straw was often burned due to low mechanization levels in agriculture, making collection and processing difficult [6]. - Since 2017, Henan has implemented the "Blue Sky Defender" monitoring system to reduce straw burning, resulting in a 90% decrease in burning incidents [7][8]. - The government has introduced various policies and funding initiatives to promote comprehensive straw utilization, including the "Five Utilization" approach (fertilizer, feed, fuel, substrate, and raw material) [10][18]. Group 3: Economic Benefits and Innovations - Farmers now find straw valuable, with options for selling processed straw to factories, leading to additional income [9]. - Innovative uses of straw include production of biomass pellets for clean energy, biogas generation, and cultivation substrates for mushrooms, showcasing the potential for high-value applications [12][16]. - The economic impact is significant, with one company reporting a total output value of 15 million yuan from straw products [11]. Group 4: Future Directions and Challenges - The article emphasizes the need for improved straw collection and transportation systems to enhance the efficiency of straw utilization [18]. - Future plans include establishing standardized straw collection centers and creating a comprehensive utilization network to further increase the utilization rate [18]. - The transition from burning to utilizing straw is seen as a critical step towards modernizing agriculture in Henan, with a focus on sustainable practices [18].