Consumption of Biologically Fixed Green Nitrogen and Agricultural Sustainability

Nitrogen (N) is essential for sustaining soil productivity and fertility, but its misuse and overconsumption can result in adverse environmental consequences and financial setbacks. Therefore, the study’s objective was to review the role of biologically fixed green N consumption in sustainable agricultural systems for efficient use. Biologically fixed N, facilitated by N-fixing microorganisms, converts atmospheric N into forms accessible to plants. Biological N fixation (BNF) occurs through various relationships between bacteria and plants, including symbiotic, associative, and non-symbiotic interactions. BNF has significantly contributed to agriculture by offering a sustainable solution to soil nitrogen deficiency. Different legume species exhibit annual N fixation through BNF ranging from 14 to 465 kg N ha−1 year−1. Legume crops transfer nitrogen to the soil or neighbouring plants in varying quantities, ranging from 0 to 650 kg ha−1. Biofertilizers have shown potential in saving nitrogen fertilizer, ranging from 20 to 100 kg ha−1 depending on the crop and biofertilizer used. BNF contributes to lowering synthetic N fertilizer usage, improving soil and plant nutrient content, and restoring soil health. Utilizing biologically fixed nitrogen contributes to the long-term sustainability of agriculture and the environment.