Research group Emissions and Immissions in Agriculture

Coordination: Alfred Pöllinger-Zierler

Emissions and immissions in agriculture – measuring and reducing environmental pollution

The Emissions and Immissions research group at HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein investigates how emissions from livestock farming can be reliably measured and effectively reduced. The focus is on scientifically validated methods and technical solutions for lower-emission and more environmentally friendly agriculture.

Measure emissions, understand the causes, develop mitigation measures

The research focuses on ammonia, methane, and odor emissions , as well as their environmental impact.
Measurements, experiments, and the development of suitable evaluation methods are used to generate reliable data for practical application.

From emissions research to practical barn construction

The results serve to develop and evaluate measures in animal husbandry, feeding, and barn construction. They also form an important basis for the emissions assessment of agricultural construction projects and for the practical implementation of emission-reducing technologies.

Our goal is to research, test, and implement the most efficient methods and techniques for reducing emissions as widely as possible.
Our work also forms the basis for special investment support programs.

Our work covers a wide range of topics:

• Measuring and evaluating emissions and immissions from livestock farming and assessing their reduction potentials, especially in connection with feeding and specific feed additives.
• Measuring gaseous emissions along the manure supply chain (barn-storage-treatment-application) and preparing expert reports, fact sheets and guidelines
• Administrative assistance in official, approval and court proceedings and preparation of expert opinions and regulations
• Investigation of manure additives regarding their odor- and emission-reducing effect in a scientifically recognized testing facility
• Investigation and evaluation of structural/technical facilities for improving the barn climate and their effects on animal health and emissions
• Testing of novel stable facilities in cooperation with the specialist department for animal-friendly husbandry and animal welfare and, if necessary, assessment of emission behavior in comparison to previous systems. 

Within our research group, we coordinate new research projects, support each other in project execution, and collaborate on publications. The diverse expertise of the members of the Emissions/Immissions research group enables a holistic view of the challenges in assessing emissions and immissions from livestock farming. This allows us to provide targeted and practical recommendations for practitioners, legislators, and policymakers.

Furthermore, we are involved in national and international research groups where new insights related to emissions from livestock farming are being developed.

We communicate our findings through specialist publications, lectures, and podcasts to raise awareness of the importance and benefits of emission-reducing measures. With modern infrastructure, an interdisciplinary team, and collaboration with governmental and non-governmental institutions as well as farmers, we offer a unique platform that links research, education, consulting, and practical application.