About this course
The sustainability of our agricultural systems is hotly debated. Real and/or perceived crises are everywhere (nitrogen, climate change, biodiversity, soil degradation, and so forth) and the opinions on how these problems should be solved (organic, regeneration agriculture, zero-till, precision agriculture, smaller farms, local production, ...) are extremely varied and not always based on sound scientific evidence. This course tries to bring data and thorough analysis back into the discussion. We present sustainability analyses of relevant processes in crops, cropping systems and grasslands. The time horizon extends from days to several growing seasons, and the analyses include balances of water, nutrients and carbon. We look at emissions and the external effects of such emissions. Students will learn about natural agro-ecological and socio-economic determinants of cropping systems; multiple cropping systems including intercropping, crop rotations and agroforestry; long-term carbon, water and nutrient balances of agro-ecosystems and an integrated farm level simulation. During the assignments, the student will use different dynamic models and tools.
Learning outcomes
Identify the agro-ecological and socio-economic determinants of farming systems
Explain key sustainability issues in farming systems such as soil degradation, water depletion and environmental pollution
Evaluate the choice and use of sustainability indicators in farming systems
Interpret carbon and nutrient balances of farming systems
Assess the water balance components of a cropping system and explore options to improve its water productivity
Use relevant dynamic models as tools for sustainability evaluation of farming systems
Construct an evidence based argument by writing an essay on a sustainability issue in farming systems
Assessment method
- Written test with open questions (50%) Three-hour written exam with essay questions.
- Assignment other (50%) Five (bi-)weekly assignments in small groups (n = 2 to 5). If the overall partial grade is <5.5, then the weekly assignment(s) with scores <5.5 can be improved individually. The improved assignment(s) can be handed in at any time, apart from the summer and Christmas breaks. The examiners may take up to two weeks for grading after the assignment(s) are handed in. If the examiners consider it necessary, they may request an oral defense of the assignment(s) by the student.
Prior knowledge
PPS20306 Systems Analysis, Simulation and Systems Management; CSA20306 Plant-Soil Interactions.
Resources
- Study guide and syllabus with relevant literature
Additional information
- Contact a coordinator
- Levelmaster
- Mode of instructionon campus
Starting dates
9 Mar 2026
ends 3 May 2026