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