Nitrogen stabilizers mitigate reactive N and greenhouse gas emissions from an arable soil in North China Plain: Field and laboratory investigation

Summary

This investigation combined field trials and laboratory experiments to evaluate nitrogen stabilisers as a mitigation strategy for reducing environmental losses associated with synthetic nitrogen fertiliser use in the North China Plain's intensive arable systems. The findings indicate that nitrogen stabilisers can simultaneously reduce ammonia volatilisation, nitrous oxide emissions, and overall greenhouse gas burdens, offering a practical technology for improving the environmental efficiency of cereal production. The work addresses a critical sustainability challenge in a major grain-producing region characterised by high fertiliser inputs and associated environmental externalities.

UK applicability

Whilst the study is geographically specific to the North China Plain's soil and climate conditions, the underlying mechanisms of nitrogen stabiliser efficacy are broadly transferable. UK arable systems could benefit from similar approaches to reduce ammonia and nitrous oxide emissions from nitrogen fertiliser, particularly given UK commitments to reduce ammonia emissions and greenhouse gas intensity; however, field validation under UK conditions and agronomic suitability would be required.

Key measures

Reactive nitrogen losses (ammonia volatilisation), nitrous oxide emissions, greenhouse gas emissions (likely CO₂ equivalents), soil nitrogen transformations, yield or crop performance

Outcomes reported

The study measured the effectiveness of nitrogen stabilisers (likely nitrification inhibitors and/or urease inhibitors) in reducing reactive nitrogen losses (ammonia and nitrous oxide emissions) and greenhouse gas emissions from synthetic nitrogen fertiliser application in cereal production. Both field and laboratory measurements were conducted to assess mitigation efficacy.

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