New Study Highlights Cost of Nitrogen Emissions, Calls for Immediate Action to Reduce Ammonia in Agriculture
Air pollution remains the most pressing environmental hazard to human health, particularly through small particulate matter (PM2.5) that penetrates deeply into the body. Recent findings by the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, published in Science, reveal a concerning rise in nitrogen-based air pollution, a major contributor to PM2.5 levels worldwide. The study, led by Professor Mark Sutton, shows that nitrogen accounted for 39% of global PM2.5 exposure in 2013, up significantly from 1990, and led to an estimated 23.3 million years of life lost globally, costing economies around $420 billion.
Nitrogen pollution largely originates from agriculture, where nitrogen-based fertilizers release ammonia. This compound reacts with nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide in the atmosphere, creating harmful particles. Professor Sutton advocates that lowering ammonia emissions by revisiting agricultural practices is one of the most efficient paths to cleaner air.
