ARS | Publication request: Effects of nitrogen fertilizer types on nitrous oxide emissions

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: June 20, 2011
Publication Date: October 15, 2011
Citation: Burger, M., Venterea, R.T. 2011. Effects of nitrogen fertilizer types on nitrous oxide emissions. In: Guo, L. et al., editors. Understanding Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Agricultural Management. ACS Symposium Series, Washington, DC: American Chemical Society. p. 179-202. DOI: 10.1021/bk-2011-1072.ch011.

Technical Abstract: The factors controlling nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions after fertilizer nitrogen (N) applications are well studied. This information can be used to choose appropriate fertilizer sources and placement methods in order to minimize direct fertilizer-induced N2O emissions in cropping systems. Several field experiments have shown that locally concentrated, alkaline-forming fertilizers, such as anhydrous ammonia or subsurface banded urea, in soil produce more N2O than evenly dispersed fertilizers. Nitrification inhibitors lower N2O emissions, but fertilizers employing a physical barrier to control the release of plant-available N are not always effective in this respect. Adding the global warming potential from fertilizer production and field application can shift the overall greenhouse gas emissions among fertility practices depending on the fertilizer type being used. The research findings presented in this review and greater knowledge about the pathways of N2O production will aid in providing better informed choices of N source and placement method in cropping systems.