ADAS and North Wyke Research are leading a four-year research project to assess the role Nitrification Inhibitors (NIs) could play in the reduction of UK agriculture’s greenhouse gas (GHG)emissions.
Nitrous oxide (N2O), commonly known as laughing gas, is a climate change causing gas about 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide and is predominantly produced from the soil following the application of nitrogen fertilisers, manure and depositions from grazing livestock. It accounts for 53 per cent of UK agriculture’s GHG footprint.
Prof Brian Chambers, Head of Science in ADAS’ Environment Group, said the research would assess the efficacy of using NIs – chemicals that slow the conversion of ammonium to nitrate – to dramatically curb emissions.
He said: “Agriculture, like every other commercial sector has to seriously look at ways of reducing its environmental footprint – particularly in relation to lowering greenhouse gas emissions".
“Farming in particular has its own challenges, because N2O, which is usually overlooked in the climate debate, is produced in large quantities and is enormously potent".
“So the idea behind the project which began in spring is to see whether it will be possible to use NIs to reduce N2O from fertiliser and manure applications to land and grazing deposits".
Brian added that as well as testing NIs the study will also look at the role improved nutrient management and the timing of the application of fertilisers and manures to land will have on N2O emissions.
Similar research conducted in New Zealand concluded that there was potential to reduce N2O production by up to 90 per cent.
Brian added: “If we are serious about reducing agriculture’s impact on the environment – which many farmers are very keen to ensure – we need to investigate every avenue open to us".
“New Zealand shares a number of similarities with the UK in terms of accepted agricultural practices, however the climate and soils are markedly different, so we have to make sure NI use is sustainable and above all safe to carry out in the UK.”
The study, commissioned by Defra is expected to be completed by 2014. It is the first time large-scale field studies using nitrification inhibitors have been undertaken in the UK. Defra will use the results to further develop its GHG reduction strategies for farming.
For more further information please contact Prof Brian Chambers on 01623 844331 or email Brian.Chambers@adas.co.uk