Research areas

For a comprehensive evaluation of agroecosystems, not only yield increases are examined, but also environmental impacts such as greenhouse gas emissions and nitrogen leaching. Modern laser gas measurement devices have already been used to conduct measurement programs in clover-grass and potatoes over two growing seasons. These data, as well as measurements on nitrogen mineralization and soil physical properties, are incorporated into modeling approaches. In addition, nutrient balances and data on soil biology are collected and analyzed to assess the sustainability of the systems.

The economic evaluation of the different farming systems is a central objective of the project. In collaboration with the Section of Business Administration (Faculty 11, University of Kassel), the advantages and disadvantages of the systems are being analysed in order to support organic farms in optimising their management strategies.

The results of the long-term experiment thus provide valuable insights for research and practice and are intended to contribute to the further development of sustainable agricultural management.