STATE OF GREEN & FOOD NATION
POLISH-DANISH AGRO AND BIOGAS COLLABORATION
Paving the way for resourceefficient and climate-friendly agricultural solutions
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POLISH-DANISH AGRO AND BIOGAS COLLABORATION Paving the way for resource-efficient and climate-friendly agricultural solutions January 2024 Front page photo Adobe Stock Editors State of Green Food Nation Contributors Trade Council of Denmark in Warsaw Design Essensen Download this publication Download this and other publications at stateofgreen.com/publications or at foodnationdenmark.com/toolbox For more information To order copies of this publication or receive more information about other related publications, please contact State of Green at info@stateofgreen.com or info@foodnation.com Copyright notice @State of Green (2024)
Content Introduction The benefits of a collaborative approach to agriculture Innovative technology is part of the solution
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Rethinking global food systems through partnerships and collaboration
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The Danish agricultural sector brings high ambitions and decades
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of environmental regulations White papers and publications: Discover the Danish approach to agriculture and biogas
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Solutions Case 1
Viking Genetics – Big Data Leads the Way to Low-Emission Cattle
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Case 2
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners – A path to decarbonise agriculture
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Case 3
Danish Crown – From data enables effective emission reduction
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Case 4
Chr. Hansen – Reducing Food Waste With Nature’s Own Resources
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Case 5
Vestjyllands Andel – Startfish plant solves multiple challenges in both fishery and organic agriculture
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Case 6
Carlsberg – Barley Collaboration Cuts the Footprint of Beer
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Case 7
Renew Energy – Turning food waste into biogas
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The benefits of a collaborative approach to agriculture Just as Denmark, Poland, with its dynamic economy and significant population, faces unique challenges and opportunities in the realm of sustainable agriculture and food production. This context provides a valuable ground for collaboration between the two countries, which can share and learn from each other's experiences and strengths.
In navigating the challenges of agricultural and food production, the collaborative heritage of the Danish food and agriculture sector is increasingly beneficial. This collaborative mindset, deeply embedded in Danish cooperative traditions, is a driving force behind the successful partnership between private companies, research institutes, and public authorities and a prerequisite for the Danish ability to cooperate with experienced agricultural nations, such as Poland. Denmark’s efforts in combining knowledge and expertise from across the value chain have led to the development of a resource-efficient and system that develops and implements the newest technologies and holds innovation as a core value.
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Innovative technologies are part of the solution The collaborative culture in Denmark propels technological advancements throughout the value chain. Precision farming in the sector and its digital solutions mark the
As Danish farmers increasingly employ precision farming to minimise their environmental footprint and food manufacturers are heading towards more digital solutions, there are significant similarities and shared challenges in the agricultural and food landscapes of both Denmark and Poland.
industry's commitment and focus on resource efficiency and the continuous goal of producing more with less. Denmark's role as a significant exporter of technological solutions supports the global green transition towards lowering the climate footprint of our food systems. Poland has a rich agricultural tradition and plays a significant role in European food production. The age of automation ensures higher standards of food safety and quality, as well as better, safer working conditions for operators. Advanced predictive maintenance tools keep production lines efficient and competitive. As Danish farmers increasingly employ precision farming to minimise their environmental footprint and food manufacturers are heading towards more digital solutions, there are significant similarities and shared challenges in the agricultural and food landscapes of both Denmark and Poland.
POLISH-DANISH AGRO AND BIOGAS COLLABORATION
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As large-scale consumers of water and energy, both Danish and Polish food and agriculture industries have much to gain from cooperation on technology to reduce consumption and recycle wastewater and heat. Denmark’s progress towards a circular economy is exemplified by transforming livestock manure and food production side streams into Denmark’s growing biogas production. The energy source is gradually replacing fossil fuels as part of the renewable energy mix and by 2030, the Danish biogas industry is projected to deliver 100 percent renewable gas – biomethane – in the Danish gas grid. In the pursuit of climate neutrality by 2045, the Danish food and agriculture industry is dedicated to efficiency, productivity, and cross-sector collaboration. Climateresilient practices in the agri-food sector, coupled with innovative technology, drive progress toward reducing emissions and producing efficiently. In recognising Poland’s significant achievements and potential in agriculture and food production, Denmark sees a valuable opportunity for shared innovation and growth.
100% The energy source is gradually replacing fossil fuels as part of the renewable energy mix and by 2030, the Danish biogas industry is projected to deliver 100 percent renewable gas – biomethane – in the Danish gas grid.
FACTS
Why Climate-friendly agricultural solutions and biogas? Danish universities and research institutions are recognised leaders in manure management and goto partners in the international research community. Danish farmers participate in the development of manure management systems and technologies for cooling, acidification, covering slurry stores and methane oxidation. Farm trials ensure minimum methane formation during handling and storage and enhanced methane yield in integrated biogas systems. Rapid removal of manure from livestock housing is essential to all measures.
is correspondingly low. Advantages like these underlines how the synergistic links between biogas and agriculture contribute to the green transition of the energy sector and to the circular bioeconomy in general.
From organic waste to renewable energy the Danish biogas industry is well established. The vast experience from small-scale and stand-alone plants has enabled the expansion of a coherent energy system, where large-scale plants now treat manure and other organic waste streams from food production and households to produce a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Research shows that manure both increases biogas production and boosts the availability of nitrogen in the degassed biomass, which is reused as a low-odor fertiliser. The risk of nitrate leakages from degassed manure into the aquatic environment
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Rethinking global agriculture and food systems through partnerships and collaboration The world is faced with a major challenge when it comes to our agriculture and food systems. We need to re-think how our food production can accommodate a growing global population while reversing the trend of declining biodiversity. We need more resilient supply systems in a world where conflict may disrupt supply chains in the blink of an eye. And more than anything, we need new products and solutions that will reduce the climate footprint of our food production and consumption. In this context, countries like Poland and Denmark, with their significant agricultural sectors, play a crucial role in these global efforts.
Collaborative initiatives with countries like Poland can significantly contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable practices on a larger scale.
Greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities in Denmark historically Since 1990, the Danish food sector has both increased production and reduced its environmental impact
Index 140
120
100
80
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0 1990
1995
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2005
2010
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2018
Source: Danish Agriculture & Food Council, 2020
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High levels of greenhouse gas emissions from food and agricultural production are a global concern. In Denmark, we recognise the sector’s contribution to climate change and the looming boomerang effect on world capabilities to produce sufficient safe and high-quality food. Approximately a third of all greenhouse gas emissions are linked to food production. In order, to transition to a more sustainable global food system, we need concrete solutions that will allow us to address issues such as: reducing methane emissions from cattle’s digestive processes, plant-based alternatives to meat, food production that demands less agricultural land and making room for biodiversity, countering food loss and waste while exploiting side streams from food production, as well as replacing traditional fertilizers and plant protection products with biologically based solutions, known as bio-solutions. Poland, with its robust agricultural industry, stands as an important partner in these efforts. Collaborative initiatives with countries like Poland can significantly contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable practices on a larger scale.
Bio-solutions are solutions based on nature’s own tools applied at an industrial scale. Enzymes, pheromones, fermentation, bio-refining, and bacteria cultures are put to work as the driving forces in the transition from a fossilbased to a bio-based economy. Novel approaches to the ancient art of fermentation are among the emerging bio-solutions. In addition to extracting value from food production side-streams, fermentation is a promising means to meet the world’s protein needs with a low climate footprint, and Danish companies are at the front with their solutions.
The Danish agricultural sector brings high ambitions and decades of environmental regulations Following decades of environmental regulation, the Danish food and agriculture sector has become experienced in implementing efficient solutions that reduce emissions while increasing productivity. Production volumes have consequently grown by almost a third since 1990, accompanied by a 16 percent decline in emissions over the same period.
PAVING THE WAY FOR RESOURCE-EFFICIENT AND CLIMATE-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURAL SOLUTIONS
Greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural activities in Denmark today Drainage of peatlands Crop production
Enteric fermentation
Manure management
Fossil energy use
7% 22%
16%
33%
22%
There are five key sources of GHG emissions in the Danish primary sector. All are the target of technological innovation to reduce the carbon footprint of agriculture.
Source: Roadmap for sustainable transformation of the Danish agri-food system (AgriFoodTure)
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Development in the total use of renewable energy in the food processing industry in Denmark and EU-28 The food processing industry includes the tobacco industry EU 28
The ability to produce more food with fewer emissions per hectare of cultivated farmland is essential to secure the global food supply. However, it is not the only strategy. In Denmark, innovation is increasingly focused on a holistic approach that explores conventional, organic, and other new approaches to agriculture and food production including regenerative agriculture. The purpose is to shape a circular, climate-resilient future where the needs of a growing global population are balanced with a healthy and biodiverse planet. However, the full potential will only be met by developing these innovative strategies with countries like Poland, fostering a circular, climate-resilient future together.
Denmark
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2006=index 100
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0 2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
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2015 Source: Eurostat
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Well-defined milestones and high-quality data are essential to measure progress towards climate neutrality and incentivise emission reductions. Here Denmark’s data-driven operations stand out, providing a traceable overview of what goes into production processes and what comes out. Decades of data collection to minimise on-farm losses have resulted in vast databases that can support future emissions reduction in many agricultural fields.
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The ability to produce more food with fewer emissions per hectare of cultivated farmland is essential to secure the global food supply.
Digital tools enable farmers to harvest data and gain a rapid overview of crop and livestock performance. Supporting informed decision-making about productivity improvements, such tools are in great demand all over the world. Collaboration between Danish and international researchers and companies is a priority to share new knowledge about data-driven solutions. These tools, which are in great demand all over the world, could be particularly beneficial in countries like Poland, enhancing productivity and sustainability through larger data-driven decision-making in agriculture. The Danish food and agriculture sector continues to invest in partnerships that deliver sustainable solutions to global challenges. For international business partners, this gives access to an entire ecosystem, rich in knowledge, and with years of experience and innovative strength.
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White papers and publications Discover the Danish approach to climate-friendly aggriculture and biogas by exploring a variety of insightful white papers and publications. Denmark’s approach to agricultural practices is deeply rooted in collaboration, creativity and innovation and a sense of care for the environment and our climate. Dive into a number of white papers to discover knowhow, insights and tangible solutions from public and private partners throughout the whole value chain.
Climate
How a whole sector is transforming its practices
A relentless focus on efficiency, productivity and cross-sector collaboration is driving the Danish food and agriculture industry towards the national ambition of climate neutrality by 2045. New agricultural practices, technological innovations, and efforts to decarbonise food processing are underway – along with strategies to support the development of green proteins and plant-based foods.
Discover the white paper at foodnationdenmark.com →
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Innovative Technology
Steering the green agenda in farming and food
Innovative technology and new smart solutions can support both the world’s rising demand for safe and nutritious food, producing more with less, increase efficiency and at the same time minimise the energy consumption. As a business partner to the Danish food cluster, you can draw advantage from Denmark’s long experience as global front-runners within innovative technology and support the development of new visionary solutions.
Discover the white paper at foodnationdenmark.com →
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Producing more with less
Collaboration
Benefit from the unique Danish culture of collaboration
Cross-disciplinary collaboration is a defining characteristic of the Danish agrifood cluster, which ranks among the strongest centers for food know-how and innovation in the world. Collective agreements between employers and employees are an outstanding feature of the Danish labor market – based on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect.
Transforming global food systems for a more sustainable and resilient future
Dive into Denmark’s journey towards a greener food and agriculture landscape, while exploring solutions for resource-efficient and datadriven agrifood systems along the way. With perspectives and cases from Danish solution providers, this publication covers everything from partnerships, R&D projects, to biodiversity restoration in agricultural areas.
Discover the white paper at foodnationdenmark.com →
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Discover the white paper at stateofgreen.com →
Discover Denmark’s resourceefficient industries In a time where industrial sectors account for over 20 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions, major industries need to adapt and limit their energy and water consumption. Presenting insights and lessons from Denmark’s push to make its industries more resourceefficient, this publication gives an introduction to the Danish journey towards energy efficiency in industrial sectors, while showcasing innovative solutions from Danish solution providers.
Discover the white paper at stateofgreen.com →
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Cases
Climate-friendly solutions within agriculture and biogas
CASE 1 VIKING GENETICS BIG DATA LEADS THE WAY TO LOW-EMISSION CATTLE PAGE 14
CASE 2 COPENHAGEN INFRA STRUCTURE PARTNERS A PATH TO DECARBONISE AGRICULTURE
CASE 3 DANISH CROWN FARM DATA ENABLES EFFECTIVE EMISSION REDUCTION
CASE 4 CHR. HANSEN REDUCING FOOD WASTE WITH NATURE’S OWN RESOURCES
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CASE 5 VESTJYLLANDS ANDEL STARFISH PLANT SOLVES MULTIPLE CHALLENGES IN BOTH FISHERY AND ORGANIC AGRICULTURE
CASE 6 CARLSBERG POLSKA BARLEY COLLABORATION CUTS THE FOOTPRINT OF BEER
CASE 7 RENEW ENERGY TURNING FOOD WASTE INTO BIOGAS PAGE 26
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CASE 1 VIKINGGENETICS TAG AIR POLLUTION IN AGRICULTURE LOCATION RANDERS, DENMARK
STATE OF GREEN & FOOD NATION
Big data leads the way to lowemission cattle
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PHOTO: FOOD NATION
Challenge Breeding cows that produce less methane is a promising scenario in the effort to reduce the climate impact of milk production. Since scientists discovered that some cows are genetically inclined to convert more feed into milk and less into methane, this possibility is coming closer to reality. The Danish cattle breeding company VikingGenetics, owned by Nordic dairy and beef farmers, is playing a lead role in the development towards a green future by enabling farmers to breed the healthy and efficient cows of the future.
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33% According to a study based on CFIT data, genetic selection could reduce dairy farmers emissions by up to 33 percent per litre of milk.
The patented Cattle Feed Intake System (CFIT) is one of the company’s key tools. A smart solution based on 3D cameras and artificial intelligence, CFIT is designed to monitor the feed intake and weight of each cow in commercial herds throughout the lactation period.
Solution VikingGenetics registers the data in the Nordic Saved Feed Index, which describes the genetic ability of each cow to turn feed into milk. The amount of methane produced, varying from 2-12 percent of the feed’s energy content, is closely linked to feed-to-milk efficiency. Farmers can then use this overview of genetic potential to select the breeding bulls that will pass high feed efficiency and other desirable traits onto the next generation. Today, CFIT monitors 12,500 cows across 25 commercial farms. By 2025, further planned installations will bring the number of cows up to 30,000. The collection of data from a larger number of herds in different production systems
will speed up the breeding of highly productive, feedefficient and low-emission cows that also stand out for their good health.
Result
About
According to a new study based on CFIT data, genetic selection for improved feed efficiency could reduce GHG emissions from dairy cattle in VikingGenetics’ home markets by 20 percent in 2050. In a country like India, for example, the improvement potential is even higher. Here a dairy farmer may reduce methane emissions by 33 percent per litre of milk using Nordic genetics.
VikingGenetics, has helped dairy farmers for decades breeding healthy, efficient, trouble-free cows.
PAVING THE WAY FOR RESOURCE-EFFICIENT AND CLIMATE-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURAL SOLUTIONS
Discover VikingGenetics at foodnationdenmark.com
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CASE 2 COPENHAGEN INFRASTRUCTURE PARTNERS TAG AIR POLLUTION IN AGRICULTURE LOCATION ESBJERG, DENMARK
A path to decarbonise agriculture
Challenge Sectors like agriculture are in dire need of new green solutions, as a their decarbonisation cannot rely on direct electrification. For the agriculture sector, fertilisers are necessary to continue to hold a high level of production. Conventional ammonia production contributes to roughly 1.4 per cent of global CO2 emissions. In Esbjerg, Europe’s largest Power-to-X facility is underway to meet those exact challenges with green ammonia production on a gigawatt scale.
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FACTS
HØST: Green ammonia on a gigawatt scale HØST is a joint venture of PensionDanmark, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners and BWSC. The Power-to-X project aims to produce green ammonia for fertilizer and fuel by using gigawattscale electrolysis technology. The facility is expected to occupy an area equivalent to 42 football fields (30 hectares) and make Denmark self-sufficient in ammonia for the production of synthetic fertilizers. Construction of the project is expected to be finalised in 2026.
Solution Green Fertilizer Denmark, a consortium committed to advancing climate-friendly fertiliser production, is set to establish a state-of-the-art facility in Denmark. The primary objective is to enable the production of climatefriendly fertiliser based on green ammonia.
The green ammonia will be sourced from the Høst PtX Esbjerg plant (HØST), which is currently under development. The plant will leverage electrolysis technology on a gigawatt-scale to generate industrial-grade green ammonia. The plant will operate flexibly, adapting to the available power production from renewables. The project will employ the conventional Haber-Bosch process, which is widely used in the industrial production of ammonia. The process involves the reaction of nitrogen with hydrogen, facilitated by a catalyst, under high temperature and pressure to yield ammonia.
Result When in operation, the HØST PtX Esbjerg is expected to have an annual production of 600,000 tonnes green ammonia, which can potentially yield 1,5 m tonnes of fertiliser. The green ammonia supplied by the HØST project will have a carbon footprint amounting to a mere 10 percent of conventional ammonia. In this way, HØST will play a key role in the ambitious initiative by strengthening security of supply and contributing to the transition towards more environmentally-friendly practices.
PAVING THE WAY FOR RESOURCE-EFFICIENT AND CLIMATE-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURAL SOLUTIONS
About CIP is the world’s largest dedicated fund manager within greenfield renewable energy investments and a global leader in offshore wind. Discover CIP at stateofgreen.com
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CASE 3 DANISH CROWN TAG AIR POLLUTION IN AGRICULTURE LOCATION RANDERS, DENMARK
STATE OF GREEN & FOOD NATION
Farm data enables effective emission reduction
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PHOTO: COLOURBOX
Challenge More than 90 percent of GHG emissions in the meat production business comes from the farms. As one of the world’s largest pork exporters and a top-five beef producer in Europe, Danish Crown has agreed carbon reduction targets with its farmers, who strive to be role models for resource-efficient production towards shared climate goals.
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90% More than 90 percent of GHG emissions in the meat production business comes from the farms.
To help farmers on the way towards their carbon reduction targets, the global food company has established the Climate Track sustainability programme. Farmers on the Climate Track cooperate with Danish Crown in four major areas – climate, animal welfare, social responsibility and biodiversity. Parameters vary depending on the country and animal breed.
Result
Solution
The collection of individual farm-level data enables Danish Crown to implement group-level emission reduction initiatives with a measurable impact.
In return for sharing livestock production data and sustainability information, farmers receive individual feedback on their sustainability performance against a Danish Crown national average.
The data is also used in lifecycle assessments that calculate carbon footprint per kilo of selected products, providing clear documentation of the carbon footprint for customers and consumers.
This includes a mapping of where their GHG emissions come from and suggestions for reduction initiatives. Danish pig farmers who report on feed use and daily weight gain also receive a reporting premium.
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About Danish Crown is one of Denmark's largest pork and beef producers working to create more sustainable food production. Discover Danish Crown at foodnationdenmark.com
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CASE 4 CHR. HANSEN TAG RESOURCE-EFFICIENT PRODUCTION LOCATION HØRSHOLM, DENMARK
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Reducing food waste with nature’s own resources
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PHOTO: FOOD NATION
Challenge Characterised by high turnover, fragile supply chains and relatively short shelf lives, the dairy products in developed markets are a significant contributor to global food waste and losses. Up to 17 percent of all yoghurt is wasted every year in the EU, which equals a total of 1.5 million tonnes of yoghurt. Some of the answers to this challenge can be found in nature.
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Danish bioscience company Chr. Hansen has developed a range of lactic acid bacteria cultures, e.g. FRESHQ®, that reduce the risk of yeast and mould spoilage. These will help make yogurt stay naturally fresh a little longer, which can reduce yogurt waste. An impact study reviewed by experts from University of Wageningen and WRAP UK reveals that in Europe alone yogurt waste could be reduced with 30 percent.
Result To get even more impact from improving quality and shelf life with Chr. Hansen’s food cultures, dairy manufacturers can play a role in guiding consumers on how to reduce food waste. A great initiative is revising the date labels and educating consumers about how to interpret them. More and more dairies in Europe expand the date label to “best before, often good after” to encourage consumers to avoid unnecessary food waste.
17% Up to 17 percent of all yoghurt is wasted every year in the EU, which equals a total of 1.5 million tonnes of yoghurt.
More and more dairies in Europe expand the date label to “best before, often good after” to encourage consumers to avoid unnecessary food waste.
PHOTO: FOOD NATION
Solution
FACTS
Enhancing quality through fermentation
30% An impact study reviewed by experts from University of Wageningen and WRAP UK reveals that in Europe alone yogurt waste could be reduced with 30 percent.
Chr. Hansen’s food cultures improves fermentation processes to enhance the quality and fresh flavor at or even beyond end of shelf life, thus supporting the fight against food waste by helping yogurt stay naturally fresh for longer.
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About Chr. Hansen works to enable sustainable agriculture, better food and healthier living for more people around the world Discover Chr. Hansen at foodnationdenmark.com
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CASE 5 VESTJYLLANDS ANDEL TAG RESOURCE-EFFICIENT PRODUCTION LOCATION HERNING, DENMARK
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Starfish plant solves multiple challenges in both fishery and organic agriculture Challenge
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FOTO: FOOD NATION
Organic pig production is a successful part of Danish high-quality food for both local markets and exports. Part of the organic production DNA has always been an active search for better solutions to improve quality while lowering the environmental footprints. In search for alternative sources of protein for organic pig feed an innovative collaboration between local fishery and the worlds’ first starfish plant has led to a triple win solution.
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Solution An important step in this direction is to find feed alter natives that minimises the import of protein from abroad. Looking under water has proven fruitful in more than one case and the latest success builds on a collaboration between local fishermen who are challenged by starfish in the waters of Limfjorden and a new plant that specialises in the extraction of proteins from seawater sources. The plant run by the company Danish Marine Protein is owned by Vestjyllands Andel (Cooperative of Limited Liability) and build as part of the multi sector collaboration GreenLab A/S buys the starfish from mussel catches in the fjord, dries them and grinds the solids to powder.
This powder is then ready to add to the daily feed of organic pigs. The plant thus acts as the crucial link in a new supply chain that brings in solutions in both ends of the chain.
Result Starfish used to be a nuisance to the local mussel fishermen. The starfish have a large appetite for mussels and make a serious hindrance for upscaling the catch and sales of quality mussels from the fjord. Further, by preventing the optimal thriving of the mussels, an important source for cleansing and keeping the marine environment in perfect shape is lost.
With the plant ready to buy the starfish, the fishermen can now see them as a source of income rather than an underwater competitor in the mussel fishery – with the added benefit of improving the conditions of the marine environment. At the other end of the chain, the organic pig farmers can cut down the soy imports and enjoy using a local protein source.
About Vestjyllands Andel is an authentic cooperative society striving to deliver products, knowledge and advice that helps and develops our customers' and members' business. Discover Vestjyllands Andel at foodnationdenmark.com
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CASE 6 CARLSBERG POLSKA TAG RESOURCE-EFFICIENT PRODUCTION LOCATION COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
STATE OF GREEN & FOOD NATION
Barley collaboration cuts the foot print of beer
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PHOTO: FOOD NATION
Challenge Malted barley may be the backbone of many a good beer, but it is also responsible for a large share of the carbon emissions from international brands. At Carlsberg Group, an estimated 27 percent of overall value chain emissions come directly from agricultural products.
POLISH-DANISH AGRO AND BIOGAS COLLABORATION
Solution
Result
Through partnerships with suppliers and experts, farmer collaborations and research into new barley varieties, the Danish brewery group is taking action to turn the situation around.
As part of a broader commitment to supporting the development of regenerative agriculture around the world, Carlsberg became a member of the cross-industry Sustainable Agriculture Initiative Platform in 2022. If all goes to plan, 30 percent of Carlsberg’s global agricultural raw materials will be sustainably sourced and grown using regenerative practices by 2030, increasing to 100 percent in 2040.
Partner farmers that deliver barley to Carlsberg companies in Denmark, Finland, France and the UK have kicked off by adopting new barley cultivation practices that prioritise soil health, supporting natural carbon capture, promoting biodiversity and regenerating the farmland. In France, for example, 20 percent of the malt used to brew Kronenbourg 1664 Blonde beer is being sourced from farms using sustainable practices, with full traceability enabled by a new blockchain solution. Scientists at the Carlsberg Research Laboratory are strengthening these efforts by using selective breeding to develop new barley types that reduce the energy and synthetic input requirements – and related carbon emissions – of the malting and brewing processes.
PHOTO: FOOD NATION
STATE OF GREEN & FOOD NATION
If all goes to plan, 30 percent of Carlsberg’s global agricultural raw materials will be sustainably sourced and grown using regenerative practices by 2030, increasing to 100 percent in 2040. About
27%
100%
At Carlsberg Group, an estimated 27 percent of overall value chain emissions come directly from agricultural products.
In 2040, Carlsberg expects its agricultural raw materials to be sourced and grown using regenerative practices.
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Calsberg Polska is one of three major players within the Polish beer market. The brewery – part of Calsberg Group – sells its well-known products that is enjoyed by millions across Europe and the rest of the world. Discover Carlsberg Polska at foodnationdenmark.com
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CASE 7 RENEW ENERGY TAG BIOGAS LOCATION TRENTON, NEW JERSEY, USA
STATE OF GREEN & FOOD NATION
Turning food waste into biogas
Challenge
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PHOTO: RENEW ENERGY
In Trenton, New Jersey, large amounts of food waste resulted in wasted money, water, energy, land, and transportation, as discarded food was, sent to landfills, and left to rot, contaminating the area with high amounts of greenhouse gasses (GHG). To solve this challenge, the Trenton Biogas plant was built in 2020. Retrofitted from an inactive sludge drying facility, the aim of the plant was to convert organic food into useful methane gas.
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Solution
Result
In order to convert more than 110,000 tonnes of food household and industrial food waste, advanced technology solutions were needed.
Every year, the biogas plant reduces more than 40,000 tonnes of GHG and produces approximately 225,000 MMBtu of biogas, equivalent to 29,000 MWh of renewable energy in terms of renewable natural gas.
Renew Energy served as a key partner and essential supplier of their expertise and knowledge. Using stateof-the-art technology, the Danish-based company was responsible for the engineering design of the Trenton Biogas Plant’s advanced anaerobic digestion system. This has front-end and back-end technologies, using pre- and post-consumer food waste as the feedstock to generate renewable electricity for the local community and rich fertiliser for the area’s agricultural amendments. The biogas plant is the first of its kind in New Jersey.
Since the opening of the biogas plant, local farmers yearly utilise the 23,000 tonnes of organic fertiliser produced from the plant in their daily operations. Moreover, according to New Jersey government officials, due to the plant and its technology, the state and its citizen are saving up to $5 million in tipping fees, fuels, energy, and other expenses.
FACTS
Trenton Biofuels Trenton Biogas is a flagship food waste recycling and renewable energy facility located in Trenton, New Jersey, USA. It began operations in 2019 and include a state-of-the-art anaerobic biodigester system, advanced nutrient recovery and highefficiency cogeneration power plant.
About Renew Energy A/S is an engineering services company, providing focused consulting in sustainable bioenergy production. Discover Renew Energy A/S at stateofgreen.com
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About State of Green State of green is a not-for-profit, public-private partnership between the Danish government and the country’s three leading business associations (Danish Industry, Green Power Denmark, and the Danish agriculture and Food Council). State of Green is your one-stopshop to more than 600 Danish businesses, agencies, academic institutions, experts, and researchers. State of Green connects you with leading Danish players working to drive the global transition to a sustainable, low carbon, resource-efficient society. Learn more about resource-efficient industries and biogas, discover cases and solutions, and connect with Danish expertise at: stateofgreen.com
About Food Nation Food Nation is a non-profit public-private partnership established by the Danish government and leading private organisations and companies. It is your gateway to information about the Danish agriculture and food sector and know-how that can accelerate the growth of international business through better solutions, innovative products and trusting cooperation. Food Nation creates awareness of Denmark as a frontrunner in innovative, sustainable and effective food production and works as a gateway for international stakeholders seeking information about Danish food solutions. Learn more about resource-efficient industries and biogas, discover cases and solutions, and connect with Danish expertise at: foodnationdenmark.com