Research project Fast manure removal from dairy barns to reduce aerial emissions

General introduction

In correspondence with the PAS decree and the Flemish Energy and Climate plan 2021-2030, ammonia and methane emissions from the dairy sector must be reduced in the coming years. The replacement of traditional slatted floors in dairy barns by a closed floor - possibly in combination with an external manure storage - could potentially lead to a reduction in both ammonia and methane emissions. The key question is whether rapid manure removal using these systems can become a viable and recognized mitigation technique for dairy farms in Flanders.

Research approach

The first step of the project is to determine which type of floor system and external manure storage is most relevant for the sector in this project. Subsequently, ILVO will determine the emissions from four dairy barns. VITO will do the same for the external manure storage systems. In addition to the concentrations of pollutants and calculated emissions, data on feed, manure, and animal management are also monitored. Finally, the necessary steps will be taken to obtain official approval for the mitigation technique.

Relevance/Valorization

If this technique gets approved, it could be a potential and feasible way for many Flemish dairy farms to meet the required reductions of both ammonia and methane emissions.

Financing

Agentschap Landbouw & Zeevisserij