Innovative drying technology: Seetal prepared for sustainable agriculture!

Innovative drying technology: Seetal prepared for sustainable agriculture!

Last Saturday, the Eschenbach grass drying cooperative opened its doors and invited interested parties to view the new drying drum. This modern facility, housed in the 82-year-old Grasteri building, will process between 2,000 and 3,000 tons of grass and corn this summer. The introduction of the new technology not only promises an improved drying process, but also actively contributes to reducing CO2 emissions. Seetaler messenger reports that the new drying technology is 15% more energy efficient and provides an equivalent drying process to that typically found in sunny hayfields in just 10 minutes.

The advantages of artificial drying were explained in detail at the open day. Farmers were able to find out about the advantages and talk shop. An important point is that rapid drying leads to less loss of nutrients. Dry grass, which is produced in spring, is rich in sugar and therefore an energy-rich feed alternative, ideal for cattle and dairy cows.

Progress and sustainability in agriculture

The new drying drum uses liquid gas instead of heating oil for drying, further minimizing the environmental impact. The entire process is optimized through heat recovery. After drying, the feed is processed into large feed cubes in a cube press. This approach is not only intended to ensure long-term drying of grass and maize in the Seetal, but also represents a cost-effective alternative to purchasing expensive feed.

The grass drying cooperative currently has 168 members and an annual turnover of around one million francs. The opening took place in fine weather and attracted around 300 visitors who enjoyed the festival food and musical entertainment.

Agriculture and its emissions

In a broader context, the discussion about sustainable agriculture also concerns greenhouse gas emissions. According to that Federal Environment Agency The agricultural sector was responsible for a total of 53.7 million tonnes of CO2 equivalents in 2024, which corresponds to around 8.2% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Mobile and stationary combustion contributes a further 62.1 million tonnes, making a total of 9.6%.

A large part of these emissions can be attributed to animal husbandry and the use of mineral fertilizers. Methane and nitrous oxide emissions that result from digestion processes and the treatment of manure are particularly problematic. However, the lavender acid phase-out of methane emissions from animal husbandry in recent years is a positive trend that has been promoted by various measures.

The developments in Eschenbach show that advances in agriculture can not only be made efficient, but also environmentally friendly. The grass drying cooperative addresses exactly these points in order to promote sustainable and future-proof agriculture.