The latest research reveals a concerning increase in human-caused nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, which have surged by 30% from 1980 to 2016. The study was carried out collaboratively by the International Nitrogen Initiative (INI) and Future Earth’s Global Carbon Project, in collaboration with the World Climate Research Programme.
Understanding Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or N2O, is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG), with an environmental impact 300 times more significant than carbon dioxide (CO2). Among greenhouse gases driving global warming, N2O has the third-highest concentration, following CO2 and methane (CH4). N2O provides a unique challenge as it accumulates in the atmosphere over extended periods, like CO2, and poses the only ongoing threat to the ozone layer. An N2O molecule can persist in the atmosphere for up to 125 years. Since 1750, global N2O concentrations have risen by 20% from 270 parts per billion (ppb) to 331 ppb in 2018. This growth has rapidly accelerated during the past five decades due to human activities.
Facts About the Study
This research paper presents the most inclusive study of worldwide N2O emissions to date, incorporating both natural and anthropogenic (human-induced) sources. It discovered that human sources contributed to 43% of all emissions. Countries such as India, China, and Brazil were identified as significant contributors to N2O emissions.
The Impact on Climate and Food Security
Increasing N2O emissions indicate a rising climatic burden from non-carbon sources while global climate change discussions primarily focus on carbon and its emissions. The research also underscored the conflict between the climate crisis and global food security. Over the past four decades, a significant proportion of N2O emissions have originated from the agricultural sector, primarily due to nitrogen-based fertiliser use. However, the rising demand for food and animal feed is set to further boost global N2O emissions.
Suggestions for Addressing the Issue
There are tried-and-tested methods for mitigating N2O emissions, such as improved crop and manure management and bio-fertiliser usage, which should be deployed more fully. Revising global industrial and agricultural policies could lead to substantial reductions in these emissions. Beyond mitigating climate change, decreasing GHGs emissions could also decrease air and water pollution. Incorporating non-carbon sources into major global climate negotiations is necessary.
The Role of Sustainable Nitrogen Management
The problem of N2O emissions could be slowed down if countries implement the United Nations Global Campaign on Sustainable Nitrogen Management from 2019. This campaign, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, focused on finalising the Colombo Declaration, a follow-up initiative on the UNEA 4 Resolution on Sustainable Nitrogen Management. This resolution aims to further dialogue about nitrogen management, a crucial aspect of mitigating N2O emissions.
