Strategies to Improve N Use Efficiency to Minimize N2O Emission from Agricultural Soil

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a significant gas that contributes to the depletion of ozone in the atmosphere, and it is emitted as a result of human activities. It is one of the top three greenhouse gases (GHG) that are of concern, according to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA). The emission of nitrous oxide (N2O) from soil is widely acknowledged as a major source, which is influenced by complex microbial production and consumption processes. This emission process is affected by both biotic factors (such as competition between different species, food chains, and interactions between plants and microbes) and abiotic factors (such as soil climate, physics, and chemistry). Therefore, the purpose of this chapter is to discuss the mechanisms of N2O formation and emission from agroecosystems, as well as to explore the best soil management practices to reduce N2O emissions. We also aim to shed light on the challenges faced in implementing effective strategies to mitigate N2O emissions from fertilized soil. Altering soil and fertilizer management is the preferred method for reducing N2O emissions while maintaining crop yield. Currently, the estimation of N2O emissions in agricultural soils relies largely on emission factors, which need improvement in terms of spatial and temporal accuracy in order to obtain a better understanding of location-specific emissions. To develop a universally acceptable strategy, research efforts should focus on different nitrogen sources and rates, evaluating N2O emissions throughout the entire crop cycle, and taking into account the influence of crop residues and their management.