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Nutrient flows for poultry production in The Netherlands
I J De Boer1, P L Van Der Togt, M Grossman
1Animal Production Systems Group, Wageningen University and Research Centre, The Netherlands. Imke.deBoer@dps.vh.wau.nl
Poultry Science
|March 29, 2000
Summary
Poultry production in The Netherlands can meet environmental targets by adopting specific management strategies. Implementing low-emission housing and targeted fertilizer reduction significantly lowers ammonia and nutrient losses, ensuring sustainable carrying capacity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Agricultural Science
- Animal Science
Background:
- Governmental environmental targets for ammonia emission and nutrient (N and P) loss per hectare were established for agricultural land.
- Poultry production in The Netherlands in 1990 exceeded these targets, indicating a need for revised management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the carrying capacity for poultry production based on 1990 data and government targets.
- To determine the effect of alternative management strategies on carrying capacity for poultry production.
Main Methods:
- Utilized government targets for ammonia emission (N) and N and P loss per hectare (ha).
- Analyzed data from 1990 poultry production in The Netherlands.
- Evaluated the impact of alternative management strategies, including low-emission housing, manure application techniques, and reduced artificial fertilizer application.
Main Results:
- Ammonia emission in 1990 (20.5 Gg N) surpassed the 2000 target (6.9 Gg N) but is achievable by 2010 (4.6 Gg N) with adopted measures.
- N loss (215 kg/ha) and P loss (31 kg/ha) in 1990 exceeded 2010 targets, but N loss was reduced to 22 kg/ha by decreasing artificial N fertilizer.
- P loss was reduced to 14 kg/ha by decreasing artificial P fertilizer, with further reduction to meet 2010 targets requiring decreased P excretion through feed additives like phytase.
Conclusions:
- Poultry production carrying capacity in The Netherlands is not limited by acidification, eutrophication, or drinking water contamination targets.
- Achieving future environmental targets for ammonia and nutrient loss is feasible through the national implementation of studied management strategies.
- Specific interventions, such as low-emission housing, optimized fertilizer use, and feed modifications (phytase, coarse Ca source), are crucial for sustainable poultry production.