Werner Zollitsch

Werner Zollitsch is a Full Professor at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU), affiliated with the Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems and the Institute of Animal Sciences. He is also the leader of the BOKU Centre for Global Change and Sustainability. His academic career includes significant leadership roles such as Head of the Institute of Animal Sciences and Department Head for Sustainable Agricultural Systems.

• Position: Professor for Sustainability in Animal Production Systems
• Institution: University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU)
• Leadership: Head, BOKU Centre for Global Change and Sustainability

His research focuses on the sustainability of animal production systems, particularly in organic and low-input agriculture. Key areas include animal nutrition, environmental impacts of livestock, greenhouse gas emissions, feed efficiency, and climate change adaptation. He investigates dairy, pig, and poultry systems, with a strong emphasis on life cycle assessment, silvopastoral integration, and sustainable breeding. His work bridges scientific research with policy and practical farming applications.

His recent publications highlight trends in feed regime impacts on environmental performance, ad libitum feeding in sows, residual feed intake in dairy cattle, forage cutting strategies, and methane mitigation. He is actively involved in EU and national projects like breed4green and D4Dairy, advancing digitalization and sustainability in dairy farming. His research consistently addresses the balance between productivity, environmental protection, and animal welfare.

He has contributed to numerous scientific and popular publications and has received funding from the EU, Austrian ministries, and private foundations. His work supports the development of sustainable food systems and informs agricultural policy.

• Project Leadership: Numerous national and EU-funded projects on sustainability, climate, and animal production
• Policy Engagement: Contributor to national strategies (e.g., Austrian Protein Strategy)
• Public Outreach: Regular media appearances and public lectures

Professor Zollitsch leads a research team focused on sustainable animal production and collaborates with interdisciplinary groups across Europe. His lab is involved in field trials, data modeling, and sustainability assessments, particularly in mountain and organic farming systems.