Ecological Scheme: Straw - Mushrooms - Biomass - Straw, Meaning from the Field to the Mushroom Farm and Back to the Field

Abstract

Abstract This study demonstrates that the process of mushroom production, from straw acquisition through substrate preparation to mushroom harvesting, and the utilisation of the remaining biomass as a valuable soil conditioner allows for minimising residue and reducing the use of mineral fertilisers It helps fill the gaps in the currently deficient manure in agricultural production, which has a significant positive impact on the natural environment as well as the economic aspect of production. Because of the biotransformation of organic matter in straw with the addition of nitrogen (from poultry litter) and calcium compounds (gypsum) in the mushroom cultivation process, a biomorphic mass with high fertiliser values is produced, as confirmed by research. The above fits into the framework of carbon farming, enabling maximum, fully ecological, and climate-friendly use of post-production agricultural biomass. The presented solution of “from the field to the mushroom farm and back to the field” seems decidedly more beneficial than straw fertilisation as it allows for a much broader assurance of continuity in the carbon cycle.