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.
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.
We explored how choices in data and 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:
Choice of statistical sources for the origin of raw materials.
Use of more specific (primary) data for the cultivation of Dutch feed crops.
Application of more specific modelling of greenhouse gas emissions in the cultivation of feed crops
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.
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.
The report is only available in Dutch.
This report is part of the PPS Klimaatperspectief Nederlandse agroproductie (Climate Perspective Dutch Agro Production). The aim of this PPS is to develop knowledge to better align the monitoring of climate effects of Dutch Agro & Food production between businesses and the government. The PPS runs 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 is also involved as a knowledge partner.
Allocation plays a vital role in LCA CO2 footprint calculations. Read how allocation keys distribute environmental impacts in Dutch agro sectors like dairy, veal, and pork. These insights are part of PPS Klimaatperspectief (Climate Perspective Dutch Agro Production) study.