Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Advances in Nitrogen Use Efficiency of 15N-Enriched Fertilizers: A Thirty-Year Review of Research and Innovations for Sustainable Agriculture

Nabila El Alami, Marwa Bourguid, Mohamed Kouighat

Journal of soil science and plant nutrition · 2025

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Summary

This thirty-year narrative review examines advances in nitrogen use efficiency using 15N-enriched fertilisers and related agronomic innovations for sustainable agriculture. The authors synthesise research on fertiliser formulations, application timing and placement, and crop management strategies designed to improve nitrogen recovery and reduce environmental losses. As suggested by the review scope, the paper likely identifies key innovations and research gaps relevant to reducing nitrogen pollution whilst maintaining crop productivity.

Regional applicability

The transferability of these findings to United Kingdom conditions depends on the specific cropping systems, soil types, and climatic contexts covered in the review. UK cereals production could benefit from innovations in nitrogen application efficiency, though uptake of 15N tracer methodologies in commercial practice remains limited. The relevance of specific recommendations should be assessed against UK soil conditions, rainfall patterns, and regulatory thresholds for nitrate leaching.

Key measures

Nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), nitrogen recovery rates, crop yield response to nitrogen, nitrogen losses (leaching, denitrification, volatilisation), 15N tracer recovery in soil and plant tissue

Outcomes reported

This review synthesises thirty years of research on nitrogen use efficiency improvements achieved through 15N-enriched fertiliser applications and related agronomic innovations. The paper reports on advances in fertiliser technology, application methods, and crop management practices designed to enhance nitrogen uptake and reduce losses.

Theme
Farming systems, soils & land use
Subject
Soil fertility & nutrient management
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
System type
Arable cereals
DOI
10.1007/s42729-025-02458-0
Catalogue ID
SNmonuucp4-xw7acg

Topic tags

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