British farmers and industry experts visited the Netherlands to learn how on-farm changes have helped the country reduce its ammonia emissions.
The visit formed part of a commitment by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), Defra and the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) to work together to find solutions.
The fact-finding tour highlighted that there are cost-effective steps British farmers can make to deliver short-term improvements, which bring both environmental benefits and improve herd health and welfare.
Paul Tompkins, a dairy farmer on the trip, said: “Simple methods such as managing nitrogen levels and excess protein in feed could not only substantially reduce ammonia emissions per animal, but also save farmers money as their feeding system is better optimised.
In the Netherlands, improving manure spreading techniques has made the most significant contribution to the reduction in ammonia emissions from farms.
“It is compulsory for Dutch farmers to use techniques such as rapidly incorporating manure into soils, slurry dribble bars and injectors.
“Although many UK farmers have already adopted these techniques, we need to see a more rapid uptake in order to achieve the emission improvements.”
The Netherlands also has strict regulations on new farm buildings. Farmers can only use approved systems that have been tested and certified to help reduce ammonia.
The legislation means all new dairy housing now has to meet emission standards of 8.6kg NH3/cow/year, down from a standard initially more than 12kg NH3/year. In the UK, there are no limits at the present time.
AHDB environment and buildings manager David Ball, said: “It is important for us to understand the science and practical implications of how to reduce ammonia from livestock production. This study tour certainly provided us with that, we can learn from others and provide clarity for farmers faced with change.”
During the trip, Dutch farmers showcased innovative ideas, from low emissions flooring that drains urine away quickly and improves foot health for cows, to slats with small flaps attached to allow slurry down but also stop gas rising. A trip to Wageningen University also provided insight into the pioneering research taking the industry forward.
NFU dairy adviser Verity Richards said: “The farmers on the tour represented a variety of different systems, which helped to highlight the need for a range of options to help UK farmers reduce emissions, using techniques that suit their system, size and geographical location.”
Agricultural ammonia emissions are a key priority for the proposed Clean Air Strategy, with a £3 million, three-year commitment from Defra to support and advise farmers on effective ways to reduce ammonia emissions on-farm.
