A recent study published in Soil Ecology Letters underscores the importance of soil type in determining effective agricultural strategies for reducing nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions. Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveal that nitrification inhibitors (NIs) and maize straw can significantly reduce fertilizer-derived N₂O emissions, but their effectiveness varies depending on specific soil properties. The study suggests that while NIs are highly effective in some soils, organic amendments like straw may not always achieve the same results, especially if soil-derived nitrogen emissions increase as a consequence.
In a 60-day experiment, the researchers used 15 N tracing method to analyze N₂O and nitrogen (N₂) emissions from two common agricultural soils: Mollisol and Inceptisol. Results indicated stark differences between these soils in terms of cumulative emissions. In the Inceptisol, which has a higher pH and active nitrogen cycling, NIs reduced fertilizer-derived N₂O emissions by up to 78% and decreased N₂ emissions by 81%. However, in the Mollisol, while maize straw decreased fertilizer-derived N₂O emissions by 60%, it simultaneously increased soil-derived N₂ emissions by 75%-96%, resulting in minimal change in total nitrogen emissions.
Implications for Sustainable Agriculture
These findings highlight the necessity of a holistic approach to agricultural greenhouse gas management that takes into account both soil properties and the sources of nitrogen emissions. While reducing fertilizer-derived N₂O is a key goal, this study reveals that soil-derived nitrogen emissions may offset these reductions, especially when organic additives like straw are used. Relying solely on fertilizer emissions data may not provide the full picture, and the results underscore the need for targeted, soil-specific treatments to maximize emission reductions.
“Our research shows that understanding soil characteristics and nitrogen sources is critical for creating effective greenhouse gas mitigation strategies in agriculture,” said Dr. Zhi Quan, the study’s lead researcher. “This approach ensures that emission reduction strategies are both sustainable and truly effective.”
By tailoring agricultural practices to the characteristics of each soil type, this research provides a valuable suggestion for climate-smart agriculture that reduces environmental impact without compromising productivity.
Soil Ecology Letters
Experimental study
Not applicable
Effects of Nitrification Inhibitor and Maize Straw Application on N₂O and N₂ Emissions from Two Agricultural Soils: A 15N Tracer Study
15-Mar-2025