Visualization of hidden environmental costs of unsustainable agriculture under consideration of different milk production systems

The overall objective of this research project is to discuss the possibilities and difficulties of product-related accounting (LCAs) and monetization of the environmental effects of agricultural value chains. In concrete terms, a comparative "from-cradle-to-framgate" life cycle assessment of products from conventional and ecological dairy cattle husbandry systems is to be drawn up. Subsequently, the reported environmental effects are to be assessed economically, i.e. monetized. On the basis of this concrete case study, a compatible methodological concept – with which the environmental effects and external costs of agricultural production systems can be illustrated despite existing uncertainties and system differences – is to be developed and tested. With this research project, the Federal Environment Agency aims at raising awareness of hidden environmental costs of agricultural products and intends to make political recommendations for action against the background of the results of the research project.