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Conclusions from the ecological and economic analysis of the closed-cycle-measures

In order to reduce fuel consumption, adapting the use of motorisation (optimal matching of working width, driving speed and engine power) as well as regular maintenance and correct adjustment of machines and equipment are important.

With increasing transport distance, the share of emissions caused by transport in total emissions rises steeply. At a distance of 0.5 km, transport CO2e emissions accounted for 3.4% of total emissions on average. At a distance of 4 km they already amounted to 22 %, at 10 km to 41 %. Opportunities for reduction are: short farm-to-field distance, larger loading volume, lorries for transport instead of tractors.

Compared to the use of synthetically produced nitrogen fertiliser, a net saving of 200 – 600 kg of greenhouse gases (CO2e) per 100 kg of nitrogen applied was achieved with all closed-cycle-measures. In comparison with commercial organic fertilisers suitable for use in organic agriculture, all measures with the exception of Slurry cooperation and Addition of charcoal for composting achieved net cost savings.

Harmful to the climate also means expensive: those measures with higher emissions of CO2e were also more expensive in terms of costs.