16 Oct 2025

The impact of data and methodology on carbon footprint calculations fo compound feed

Partial report ‘Climate Perspective Dutch Agro Production’

Over the past few years, we have been involved in the Dutch Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project Klimaatperspectief Nederlandse Agroproductie. The project aims to better align environmental monitoring between businesses and the government in the Netherlands.

Within this effort, we studied how data choices and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methods influence the carbon footprint of compound feeds. Results show variations, underlining the need for specific and primary data and consistent methods.

Download report (in Dutch)More information on this PPP project

Key factors influencing environmental impact calculations

We explored how choices in data and LCA methodology impact the estimated carbon footprint of compound feeds. Or more specifically, the agricultural phase in the production of raw materials for compound feed. Therefore, 3 key factors that contribute to variations in results were examined:

Statistical sources

Choice of statistical sources for the origin of raw materials.

Primary data

Use of more specific (primary) data for the cultivation of Dutch feed crops.

Specific modelling

Application of more specific modelling of greenhouse gas emissions in the cultivation of feed crops.

Insights on consistent methodology and data use

The study shows that the carbon footprint of compound feed can vary by up to 20%. We conclude that using a consistent footprinting method is essential for calculating the environmental footprint of compound feed. This method should be used for both primary (specific) and secondary (database) data. More detailed data on origin, cultivation, transport, and processes lead to more accurate results.

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‘Variation in the carbon footprint of compound feeds due to choices in data and methodology related to the origin and cultivation of feed ingredients'

The full report ‘Variatie in de carbon-footprint van mengvoeders door keuzes in data en methodiek gerelateerd aan herkomst en teelt van voedergrondstoffen’ is available for download.

Note: this publication is only available in Dutch.

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More information on PPP Klimaatperspectief Nederlandse Agroproductie

This report is part of the PPP Klimaatperspectief Nederlandse Agroproductie (Climate Perspective Dutch Agro Production). The aim of this PPP is to develop knowledge to better align the monitoring of climate effects of Dutch Agro & Food production between businesses and the government. The PPP ran from 2020 to 2024. The consortium includes the Ministry of LVVN, Nevedi (Dutch Association for Animal Feed Industry), NZO (Dutch Dairy Organization), CoViVa (Coalition for the Vitalization of Pig Farming), and SBK (Foundation for Industry Organization in the Veal Sector). In addition to WUR, Mérieux NutriSciences | Blonk was also involved as a knowledge partner.

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Impact of allocation methods on the environmental footprint in the Dutch agro sector

Allocation methods play a vital role in LCA and carbon footprint calculations. Read how allocation keys distribute environmental impacts in Dutch agro sectors like dairy, veal, and pork. These insights are part of Public Private Partnership Klimaatperspectief Nederlandse agroproductie (Climate Perspective Dutch Agro Production).