Publications by authors named "Lukas Bayer"
In light of recent fluctuations in energy prices, there has been a growing emphasis on energy efficiency within the agricultural sector. At the same time, ongoing soil degradation in intensive agricultural systems reinforced the need for soil health improving agricultural practices. This study combines the two aspects and examines the effects of sustainable soil management practices on total energy consumption, specifically focusing on fertilizer and pesticide energies, as well as economic indicators such as contribution margins.
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- Intensive dairy farming is a significant source of environmental issues, particularly due to enteric fermentation and manure, prompting the exploration of various strategies to decrease emissions.
- This study assessed three innovative measures—feeding seaweed, cow toilet systems, and slurry acidification—using life cycle assessments in two German dairy farm models, revealing that the combination of all three methods was most effective for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and eutrophication.
- Although each measure showed trade-offs in environmental impacts, the findings suggest that integrating multiple strategies could enhance overall effectiveness and necessitate a reevaluation of current funding and policy priorities in agriculture.
Sustainability in the Sardinian sheep sector: A systems perspective, from good practices to policy.
Integr Environ Assess Manag
September 2022
Three million sheep raised on 10 000 active farms operating in traditional and innovative farming systems in Sardinia, Italy, account for 13% of sheep milk production in the European Union (EU). Almost all of the milk delivered is processed to sheep cheese and is destined for world trade. The Sardinian dairy sheep sector also emits approximately 1600 kt CO eq/year, approximately 60% of regional livestock greenhouse gas (GHG), prompting the need for regional mitigation plans.
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