Using nitrification inhibitors to mitigate agricultural N2O emission: a double-edged sword?

Abstract

Nitrification inhibitors show promise in decreasing nitrous oxide (N2 O) emission from agricultural systems worldwide, but they may be much less effective than previously thought when both direct and indirect emissions are taken into account. Whilst nitrification inhibitors are effective at decreasing direct N2 O emission and nitrate (NO3- ) leaching, limited studies suggest that they may increase ammonia (NH3 ) volatilization and, subsequently, indirect N2 O emission. These dual effects are typically not considered when evaluating the inhibitors as a climate change mitigation tool. Here, we collate results from the literature that simultaneously examined the effects of nitrification inhibit..