Germany's agricultural sector faces climate challenges due to fertilizer production

The production of chemically-synthesized fertilizer in Germany relies heavily on natural gas, contributing approximately one percent of the nation's total greenhouse gas emissions. While these fertilizers allow for high crop yields and precise nitrogen supply, they present a challenge to Germany's goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2045.

In contrast to conventional farming, organic farming prohibits synthetic mineral fertilizers, often resulting in lower yields. Organic alternatives such as manure, compost, and poultry litter provide a broader range of nutrients, including phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Among organic options, dried poultry manure is noted for having particularly high nutrient concentrations, whereas liquid options like poultry slurry are also highly concentrated.

Optimizing nitrogen use and exploring climate-friendly industrial fertilizers are identified as necessary steps to reduce the environmental impact of agricultural production.