Summary
This paper presents nitrogen surplus benchmarks tailored to China's main cropping systems as a mechanism for controlling nitrogen-related pollution. The authors found that double-cropping systems accumulated approximately twice the nitrogen surplus of single-cropping systems. The benchmarks are positioned as realistic, evidence-based targets for improving nitrogen management in conventional Chinese agriculture, with potential for further refinement through stricter implementation of 4R-nutrient stewardship and enhanced agronomic practices.
UK applicability
Whilst the specific nitrogen surplus benchmarks are calibrated to Chinese cropping systems and soil conditions, the methodological approach to establishing nitrogen loss thresholds may have limited direct application to UK farming. UK nitrogen management is already subject to stricter regulatory frameworks (e.g. Nitrates Directive, Water Resources Act), though the 4R-stewardship principles discussed are broadly applicable.
Key measures
Nitrogen surplus (kg ha⁻¹); nitrogen deposition rates; reactive nitrogen losses; fertilisation management across single and double cropping systems
Outcomes reported
The study established nitrogen surplus benchmarks for major Chinese cropping systems to control nitrogen pollution. Double-cropping systems showed roughly twice the nitrogen surplus of single-cropping systems.
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