Swiss agriculture can become more sustainable and self-sufficient by shifting from forage to grain legume production

Switzerland's livestock production has high environmental costs and relies heavily on feed imports. This study investigates the potential of sustainable grain legume production (currently negligible) to increase self-sufficiency and reduce environmental impact. Expert surveys and quantitative analyses using yield, soil, terrain, and climate data show that pea, soybean, and faba bean have high potential. Two scenarios – one using existing arable land and another incorporating suitable grassland – suggest a significant increase in domestic legume production, potentially replacing a substantial portion of animal protein consumption while improving human and environmental health.

Beat Keller, Corina Oppliger, Mirjam Chassot, Jeanine Ammann, Andreas Hund, Achim Walter