Warnings over ammonia emissions

Urgent action is needed to tackle rising ammonia emissions, according to scientists from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology

In a series of new research papers examining the environmental impacts of nitrogen pollution, to which ammonia contributes, academics have issued a stark warning that ammonia emissions will increase in warmer climates.

The papers also conclude that ammonia that leaks from fertilisers is already causing biodiversity loss through the eutrophication of ecosystems, and that a number of thresholds for the health of humans and ecosystems have been exceeded as a result of nitrogen pollution.

“Very little is being done to clean up ammonia emissions,” said lead researcher professor Mark Sutton. “The current target in Europe represents a 2% reduction between 2010 and 2020, compared with a 30% reduction for sulphur dioxide.”

However, taking action now could halve ammonia levels. “Implementing available techniques could reduce ammonia emissions by 50% across Europe to reach more sustainable levels,” said Sutton.