In 2024, the ‘Stable of the Future’ training and demonstration facility was opened at the VBZL Haus Düsse. The ‘Stable of the Future’ incorporates two different housing systems, corresponding to the ‘open-air housing’ and ‘outdoor access/grazing’ systems.
The aim is to develop and test alternative housing systems, taking into account the aspects of ‘improving animal welfare’, ‘reducing negative environmental impacts’ and ‘increasing consumer acceptance’. The housing systems offer increased space, structured functional areas, technical processes for separating manure and urine, and organic enrichment materials.
Furthermore, technical innovations and practice-relevant trials are being tested and carried out with the aim of transferring the knowledge generated to practical application. The focus lies on emission measurements and climate control, as well as the detection of heat stress and respiratory diseases. In addition, animal activity is monitored using cameras and AI to gain new insights into animal behaviour.
A tour of the barn of the future is available at any time via the visitor platform at Haus Düsse. Furthermore, the barn systems can be explored in a virtual barn tour accompanied by explanatory texts.