We wanted to learn more about the difference in greenhouse gas emissions between round bales and flat silos. To find an answer, we have asked our partner SINTEF to make calculations for the flat silo at Mære and compare this with the corresponding amount of round bales. The brief conclusion is that already after 5-11 years, depending on the type of concrete and plastic, there will be lower climate emissions from the flat silo than from round plastic bales. After 25 years, the emissions are about 50 % lower when using a flat silo. Feel free to read the entire report to see how the calculations were made.
In the calculation, no account has been taken of transport during harvesting/transportation and any differences in fodder quality/fodder 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.
