We wanted to learn more about the difference in greenhouse gas emissions between round bales and flat silos. To find the answer, we asked our partner SINTEF to make calculations for the flat silo at Mære and compare this with a similar amount of round bales. The short conclusion is that after just 5-11 years, depending on the type of concrete and plastic, there will be lower greenhouse gas emissions from the flat silo than from round bale plastic. After 25 years, emissions are about 50 % lower when using a flat silo. Please read the entire report to see how the calculations were made.
The calculation does not take into account transport during harvesting/import and any differences in feed quality/feed loss.
Mære Agricultural School is a pilot area in FME-ZEN where researchers at SINTEF and NTNU work on various issues related to energy use and buildings at the school.
