Nitrogen emission cuts do not impact the ozone layer

According to a study by the University of Sheffield, nitrogen oxide release reduction practices do not slow down the process of restoring the ozone layer in the stratosphere

by Matteo Cavallito

 

The use of special techniques such as the use of special fertilisers and crushed basalt rock can reduce nitrogen oxide emissions without slowing down the overall recovery of the ozone layer. This is reported in research conducted by the University of Sheffield. The investigation, explains a statement from the British university, was based on the application of a prediction model capable of simulating the effects of a limited nitrate release.

The role of ozone

Surface ozone (O3) is a pollutant that is produced in the atmosphere through the action of sunlight and from certain chemical precursors. These include nitrites and nitrates, i.e. nitrogen oxides that can be released mainly from agricultural soils. These compounds, in other words, contribute to the formation of ozone itself, which, at the lowest levels of the earth’s atmosphere, promotes pollution and the greenhouse effect.

It is not surprising, therefore, that the reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions also leads to an improvement in air quality, as well as reducing the risks of water and environmental contamination. The problem, however, is that ozone itself simultaneously performs an essential function in the stratosphere where its presence ensures the absorption of harmful ultraviolet rays and thus preserving life on Earth.

The action of nitrogen oxides

First observed in the 1970s, the depletion of the ozone layer and the opening of the infamous breach in it caused particular concern, leading governments to take measures to limit the production of CFC (or chlorofluorocarbon) gases judged to be the main culprits.

Since then, the situation has improved to the point that the ozone layer continues to experience a gradual recovery.

But balances, as we know, can be tricky. Indeed, the Sheffield researchers point out, “There is an international focus on developing N2O reduction strategies to stop soil from releasing nitrous oxide into the air but there have been concerns that cutting these emissions might slow down the recovery of the ozone layer.”

No impact on ozone layer restoration

The researchers’ study, however, provided reassuring answers by highlighting “the dual benefits of N2O reduction strategies which can provide substantial climate benefits by cooling the planet from reducing N2O, protecting the O3 layer and hence not impacting harmful UV rays, and environmental benefits by reducing nitrate leaching into water bodies and natural habitats.”

In summary, the researchers point out, certain “Farming methods can reduce nitrous oxide emissions without slowing down the overall recovery of the ozone layer.”

The results, in particular, “showed that a feasible use of fertilisers with nitrification inhibitors and enhanced rock weathering (a tecnique which consists of forcibly crushing rocks and spreading their dust on the ground in order to foster CO2 sequestration, ed.) could cut agricultural N2O emissions by about 25 per cent without hindering ozone recovery.” The study, the authors conclude, offers further support for policies to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions and the adoption of consistent agricultural practices.