Innovation

One of SibAgro's key innovations is the “Wet Barrier System”, designed to neutralize odors emanating from livestock farms. Manufactured by a Moscow-based company, this patented technology employs a smart microstation that adjusts reagent spraying based on weather conditions. This system has been successfully deployed at SibAgro’s facilities, including poultry farms and pig farms in Tomsk and Kudryashovsky. Studies confirm its effectiveness, making it a pioneering solution for odor control in agricultural operations.

Another notable innovation involves “storage pond management”. Previously, manure effluent was collected in ponds, causing significant odor challenges. SibAgro partnered with Tomsk’s Darwin company to address this issue. They introduced aeration and special bacterial preparations to neutralize odors and reduce the environmental footprint of these ponds. This effort significantly improved the quality of life for nearby communities, demonstrating the potential of biotechnology in agriculture.

Further innovations include the “accelerated composting of poultry manure” using Darwin’s technology. This method reduces decomposition time from 9-12 months to just 28 days, doubling wheat yields in fields fertilized with the resulting compost. This closed-loop system exemplifies SibAgro’s commitment to sustainability.

Inspiration

SibAgro’s journey toward sustainable practices stems from the need to address pressing community concerns. As residential areas began encroaching on farm perimeters, complaints about odors and environmental impact grew louder and more frequent. "Cities always continue to grow," remarks Andrey Adrianov, a leader in the company’s sustainability initiatives. The expansion of urban areas brought residents closer to industrial zones, where concerns about air quality, odors, and overall quality of life became increasingly vocal. These concerns served as a wake-up call for SibAgro, prompting the company to take action and address the growing tension between its operations and the local communities.

"Finding the right solutions was no easy task," Adrianov admits. "We were the first in our field to address this issue systematically, and it was challenging to find effective technologies that fit our specific operations." SibAgro explored various cutting-edge technologies and approaches, investing significant resources to identify methods that could mitigate the impact of its operations while maintaining efficiency and productivity.

Despite these hurdles, SibAgro transformed challenges into opportunities, becoming a pioneer in the agricultural industry by implementing solutions that would later define its environmental strategy. From advanced waste management systems to odor reduction technologies, the company took bold steps to set a new standard for sustainability in its field. This inspiration-driven approach reflects SibAgro’s firm commitment to not only resolving present-day challenges but also anticipating the needs of future generations.

Overall impact

SibAgro combines production goals with concern for the environment, society and the economy. The use of modern biogas technologies allows us to process up to 500,000 tons of animal by-products annually. In terms of ecology and agricultural development, this is a crucial step towards sustainable regional development. One of SibAgro’s standout achievements is its accelerated composting technology, which transforms poultry manure into a potent fertilizer in just 28 days. This innovative method not only reduces waste but has also doubled wheat yields, making it a cornerstone of the company’s circular economy approach.

"With innovative composting, we turned a waste problem into a resource that feeds our fields and fuels our future," Adrianov remarks. Such initiatives reflect SibAgro’s commitment to leveraging science and technology to build sustainable agricultural practices.

"Ecology here and now answers not only to the commercial interests of the company but also to the interests of future generations," Adrianov emphasizes. "Decisions must be balanced and grounded in science." A huge amount of money is allocated for research and development, which is then included in the costs of producing the products. As a result, both consumers and producers will pay for the solution to the odor problem

Business benefit

SibAgro’s sustainability initiatives provide tangible business benefits that go beyond corporate responsibility, demonstrating the company's ability to align profitability with environmental and social priorities. By proactively addressing environmental concerns, such as odor management and waste reduction, the company has significantly reduced social tensions in communities adjacent to its facilities. This has translated into fewer operational disruptions, smoother regulatory compliance, and enhanced stakeholder trust. Consumers, in particular, have responded positively to the company’s eco-conscious branding, viewing SibAgro as a responsible and forward-thinking enterprise. This enhanced reputation has not only fostered customer loyalty but has also attracted investors who prioritize sustainable practices.

Additionally, SibAgro has successfully leveraged its innovations, such as the Wet Barrier System and accelerated composting technology, to optimize operational efficiency and reduce waste. By transforming poultry manure into high-quality fertilizer, for instance, the company has turned a costly waste management issue into a valuable resource that boosts crop yields and generates additional revenue streams. This circular economy approach ensures that by-products are repurposed, minimizing costs and creating new opportunities for growth.

From a market perspective, SibAgro's commitment to sustainability has opened doors to broader markets, particularly among buyers who value environmentally responsible production. The company’s alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has further strengthened its appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and organizations. Overall, SibAgro’s innovative practices have cemented its position as a leader in the agro-industrial sector, proving that integrating sustainability into business operations can drive both profitability and long-term growth.

Social and environmental benefit

SibAgro’s environmental and social initiatives exemplify the company’s commitment to sustainable development, benefiting both the ecosystems it operates in and the communities it serves. By implementing advanced technologies like the Wet Barrier System and aerated storage ponds, the company has effectively minimized its environmental footprint. These innovations have significantly reduced odor emissions and waste, contributing to cleaner air and water quality in surrounding areas. Furthermore, the accelerated composting of poultry manure has not only prevented harmful waste accumulation but has also enhanced agricultural productivity by providing nutrient-rich fertilizer, doubling wheat yields in some cases. This approach supports global efforts toward sustainable agriculture and aligns with SDGs focused on clean energy, responsible consumption, and life on land.

On a social level, SibAgro has made substantial investments in improving the quality of life for local communities. By addressing long-standing odor issues, the company has fostered stronger relationships with residents, reducing complaints and building trust. SibAgro has also prioritized job creation and economic stability in rural areas, ensuring that its operations provide stable employment opportunities for local populations. Beyond employment, the company invests in vocational training and educational initiatives, equipping community members with valuable skills and contributing to long-term regional development.

These combined efforts underscore SibAgro’s role as a socially responsible corporate citizen, balancing its production goals with the well-being of both people and the planet. By fostering harmony between industrial operations and community needs, SibAgro is setting a precedent for sustainable practices in agriculture.

Interview

Andrianov Andrey Gennadievich, Director of the Production Control Department of the head division of SibAgro Holding