Creation Covenant Alliance

Study Reveals Accelerating Increase in Emissions of Nitrous Oxide, the Overlooked Greenhouse Gas

Human emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O) have risen 40% in 40 years. A 20% cut is needed by 2050 to meet climate targets.

A recent report has revealed a 40% increase in human emissions of the potent greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) over the past 40 years. Emissions of this gas will need to be reduced by more than 20% by 2050 in order to meet global climate targets. Australia is currently exploring ways to address N2O emissions in its agricultural sector.

Findings from the second-ever global nitrous oxide budget indicate that the rate of N2O emissions growth is rising, with agriculture being a significant source. N2O, also known as the “forgotten greenhouse gas,” has a warming potential 300 times greater than that of carbon dioxide (CO2). It is commonly used as a medical anaesthetic and recreational drug, but its production as a by-product of nitrogen-based fertiliser use has made it a major contributor to greenhouse gases.

According to Pep Canadell, CSIRO environment chief research scientist and co-author of the report, N2O is accumulating at an accelerating rate. Emissions are growing 30% faster than in the previous decade. The increase in emissions is dangerous not just for the amount produced, but also for the increase in emissions resulting from a warmer earth. Despite some of these emissions coming from natural sources like tropical forest soils, the majority of N2O emissions influencing climate change are anthropogenic or resulting from human activity.

Joeri Rogelj, a climate scientist at Imperial College London not involved in the new study, affirmed the authority of the report on N2O sources and sinks. Rogelj, also a lead author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s sixth report, states that N2O emissions need to decrease by about 20 to 25 per cent by 2050 to align with the Paris Agreement goal of keeping global warming below a 2C increase.

Rogelj also stressed the importance of the agricultural sector, which is currently the dominant contributor of N2O emissions and continues to increase. He emphasized the need for sharing and applying best practices to reduce emissions. While some countries have successfully reduced their N2O emissions, such as European countries (excluding Russia) which have cut emissions by 31% since the 1980s, these reductions have been offset by increases elsewhere, like China and South Asia.

Researcher Peter Grace from Queensland University of Technology states that the rise in N2O emissions is mainly due to the increased use of nitrogen fertilisers for food production to feed an expanding global population. Global population growth from 3.08 billion people in 1961 to 7.7 billion in 2019 was matched by a 95% rise in nitrogen fertiliser production, increasing from 12.94 million tonnes to 122.74 million tonnes per year. Some countries have begun to respond to this issue by introducing fertiliser emission targets or usage caps.

While Australia is not one of the largest N2O emitters globally, discussions are underway on reducing emissions for crops such as sugar cane, which require a significant amount of nitrogen fertiliser. Although efforts are being made to increase nitrogen-use efficiency, these methods often come at a cost to growers, limiting their adoption. The Australian federal government’s plans to reduce greenhouse gases from the agricultural and land sector are still to be announced.

Original Story at www.abc.net.au

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024