Biological Nitrogen Fixation is a Revolution of Unlocking Sustainable Agriculture

There is broad scientific consensus that nitrogen-based fertilizers are nearly essential for modern agriculture. Yet, their escalating use and the resulting environmental challenges have intensified the search for more sustainable alternatives. Nitrogen fixation offers a practical and ecoconscious method for tackling a major agricultural challenge: maintaining high crop productivity while protecting the environment. By employing nitrogen-fixing organisms and embracing modern farming techniques, farmers can lessen their dependence on chemical fertilizers, boost soil fertility, and reduce environmental harm. As the global demand for food continues to grow, incorporating nitrogen fixation into conventional farming practices is essential for achieving long-term sustainability and resilience in food production. Among these, biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) stands out as one of the most ecofriendly methods for meeting crop nitrogen needs. However, like synthetic fertilizers, BNF is not without limitations. A key issue is the highly variable and often limited transfer of fixed nitrogen to nearby non-nitrogen-fixing plants ranging from 0% to 70% depending on various conditions. This chapter examines current developments in BNF across selected legume crops, its global economic impact, and recent findings on nitrogen transfer in agricultural systems. It also explores the key drivers of nitrogen transfer and outlines management approaches to enhance both fixation and interplant nitrogen sharing.