One of the aims in this area of work is an environmentally compatible, efficient materials balance. We look for ways for making more efficient use of the nutrients from farmyard, recycled and inorganic fertilisers in arable farming and forage growing and reducing water, air and soil pollution by potential contaminants from fertilisers and livestock farming. We evaluate fertilisers from an agronomic and ecological point of view, calibrate soil testing methods for the purposes of fertiliser advice and create bases for fertilising in arable farming and forage growing. We investigate infiltration of phosphorus and nitrogen compounds by leaching, surface run-off, erosion and drainage with a view to protecting surface water and groundwater.