Preface

Agricultural research in boreal region today is more important than ever. Current challenges related to climate change, free market, common agricultural policy, food labelling and safety require new knowledge and solutions in farm and policy making levels. Also, global demand for safe and nutritious food and increased demand for animal products in developing countries give opportunities and poses responsibilities for food production in Northern hemisphere especially in boreal region where available water is not a limiting factor for food production. In order to fulfil the national and global demands, the long term goal of the agricultural research in boreal region should be the sustainable intensification of food production. In addition, a better use of by-products and efficient cycling of nutrients in all sectors of food chain is essential in the future. I hope Agricultural and Food Science is in the front line publishing the scientific articles related to these important topics.