Short project description

The environmental impact of agriculture on earth’s ecosystems is overwhelming. Nutrient losses from Danish agriculture leading to pollution of our coastal waters is one out of many challenges that need to be addressed in the coming years. The Danish nitrogen regulation has proven insufficient in meeting the targets set by the Water Framework Directive, highlighting the needs for, more effective mitigation strategies.

It is an existing political wish to advance green biorefining in Denmark, which could provide incentives to expand grass production on existing agricultural land. Grass cultivation offers a range of potential environmental benefits, and therefore, advancing the grass-based bioeconomy could yield significant reductions in nutrient losses from agriculture. However, the green biorefining industry and its associated value and supply chain are still in their infancy.

This project aims to evaluate the potential of expanding grass cultivation in Denmark as a strategy that could contribute to meeting nitrogen regulation targets and enhance environmental sustainability. The project will offer a flexibility for the student to choose their own focus and investigation approach. Methods may include theoretical approaches, GIS, system modelling, system analysis or elements of social science such as interview-based studies.