Agriculture is increasingly under pressure to contribute to the reduction of environmentally and climate-relevant emissions. Manure management, in particular, is coming under scrutiny: it contributes significantly to ammonia emissions and, due to the associated odor pollution, is attracting increased public attention. In Austria, around 94% of ammonia emissions originate from agriculture, with barns and storage (46%) and the application of manure (43%) identified as the main sources. The increasing conversion to free-stall barns has further intensified manure management and, consequently, the perception of odor in rural and peri-urban areas – thus increasing the potential for conflict.

Against this backdrop, the use of manure additives to reduce emissions and odors is gaining importance. However, comprehensive scientific studies that systematically evaluate their actual effectiveness are still lacking. This is precisely where the research project comes in: It systematically examines commercially available products and objectively assesses their potential to reduce ammonia emissions and odor pollution. The aim is to gain sound scientific insights and provide practical, evidence-based solutions for agriculture that offer farmers a reliable basis for decision-making.

Project goals

The following central goals are pursued within the framework of the project:

• Assessment of the reduction potential of climate- and ecosystem-relevant emissions through the use of different manure additives.
• Evaluation of the actual emission reduction effect of these products under practical conditions.
• Development of practical application recommendations for agricultural businesses.
• Conducting working groups to discuss the results obtained and derive actionable measures.
• Assessment of ammonia emissions with and without additives.
• Projection of the national emission reduction potential for Austria.
• Publication of the research results in suitable advisory publications for direct dissemination to practitioners.

Social and economic significance

• Reliable statements regarding odor reduction through manure additives become possible.
• Contribution to avoiding penalty payments to the EU by complying with emission limits.
• Improving air quality by reducing ammonia emissions that cause particulate matter is an important contribution to public health.
• Supporting manufacturing companies in the development of effective products.

Business significance

• Investments in emission reduction measures are based on reliable results.
• Potential savings of around €1 million per year through improved nitrogen efficiency.

Environmental policy significance

• Contribution to the reduction of ammonia emissions and thus to the reduction of particulate matter pollution.
• Reduction of eutrophication and acidification of sensitive ecosystems.
• Implementation of national and international climate protection commitments, in particular within the framework of the NEC Directive.

Possibilities for scientific use

The research findings make a significant contribution to the emission-reducing development of manure management. In addition to direct implementation on farms, the results are also incorporated into advisory services and disseminated through specialist publications and national and international conferences. This creates a direct transfer of knowledge between science, advisory services, and practice – a crucial step towards the environmentally sound and sustainable development of Austrian agriculture.

Further information

Biogas slurry and manure treatment 

Innovation Farm at the Ried Trade Fair

Climate-ready for a livable future

Manure testing facility of Raumberg-Gumpenstein Research & Development