Factors Influencing Global Nitrous Oxide Emissions from Fertilized Upland Soils

Climate, Soil Properties, and Agricultural Practices

According to Dr. WEB, agricultural practices have the greatest impact on nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions from fertilized upland soils worldwide. Other key factors that influence N₂O emissions include climate and soil properties.

Correlation and Structural Equation Modeling Analysis

A team of researchers from various institutions conducted correlation and structural equation modeling analyses on a global N₂O emission dataset to identify the factors contributing to increased emissions. Their findings revealed that:

• Climate variables such as temperature and precipitation have a significant effect on N₂O emissions.
• Soil properties, including pH, texture, and organic matter content, also play a role in N₂O production.
• Agricultural practices, such as fertilizer application rates, cropping systems, and irrigation methods, have the greatest influence on N₂O emissions.

Global Atmospheric N₂O Concentration

Since the pre-industrial era, global atmospheric N₂O concentration has increased by over 23%, rising from 270 parts per billion (ppb) in 1750 to 336 ppb in 2018.

Conclusion

Understanding the key factors influencing N₂O emissions from fertilized upland soils is crucial for mitigating global N₂O concentration and its negative environmental impacts. Researchers and policymakers must work together to implement sustainable agricultural practices that reduce N₂O emissions and contribute to the preservation of our planet.