China’s bioeconomy turns poultry waste into green opportunity

Poultry waste powers fertilizer and energy

In poultry operations, manure is increasingly fermented to produce biogas, which supplies electricity and heat to rural communities.

The byproducts are composted into organic fertilizers. These fertilizers are then applied to crop fields, helping close the nutrient loop and reduce nitrogen runoff — one of the biggest pollution challenges in intensive agriculture.

Regions like Shandong, Henan, and Sichuan, home to major poultry producers, have established pilot projects that integrate poultry waste treatment with renewable energy production. These initiatives not only lower emissions but also reduce input costs for farmers by replacing imported chemical fertilizers with locally sourced organic alternatives.

Policy and investment drive adoption

Government support has played a key role in scaling up these initiatives. Funding—reaching up to USD 1.2 million per project in some provinces—help farms install waste treatment systems, composting facilities, and anaerobic digesters.

As a result, cooperatives and agribusinesses increasingly view poultry waste as a renewable asset that boosts both productivity and sustainability.

International firms are also tapping into this transformation. Dutch and other European firms are supplying technologies such as organic substrates, precision composting systems, and manure processing equipment.

Companies like Van der Knaap and De Wild are supporting China in advancing its circular nutrient management goals and accelerate its green transition.

As the world’s largest poultry producer, China is setting a powerful example for circular livestock management. Its bioeconomy strategy turns environmental pressure into a business opportunity.

By integrating waste treatment, renewable energy, and sustainable fertilizer production, China is building a low-carbon, high-efficiency poultry sector that could reshape global agribusiness.