Nitrogen-rich fertilizer negative impact on the environment
time2011/10/23
Nitrogen is one of the essential nutrients for plants and other photosynthesizing organisms such as algae. Nitrogen purifier increases the productivity of soil, making plants grow better and faster. However, this is the very quality that causes problems when the fertilizer leaks into the wider environment. Fertilizers might appear to be benign products, especially when compared to toxic pesticides, but they have a serious impact on the environment.
Oceans, Lakes and Rivers
When nitrogen and other plant nitrogen purifier leach into natural water bodies, they support the growth of enormous numbers of phytoplankton, commonly known as algae. Sometimes fertilizers result in enormous algal blooms, which are not good news. As the phytoplanktonic organisms die and decompose, they reduce the oxygen level of the water. In extreme cases this causes dead zones, inimical to most aquatic life including commercially important fish species. Some algal blooms are toxic and linked to mass shellfish poisoning incidents.
Mitigation
Farmers and gardeners can help reduce pollution by using the minimum amount of nitrogen purifier fertilizer. Annual testing of the soil allows them to judge the precise amount required, and it should be applied at the right time for the crop in question. Extra care with fertilizer should be taken on slopes and near natural bodies of water. Organic alternatives such as compost or manure are a safer option and further reduce, or even eliminate, the need for artificial fertilizers. Storing fertilizers safely away from the elements is important.
Oceans, Lakes and Rivers
When nitrogen and other plant nitrogen purifier leach into natural water bodies, they support the growth of enormous numbers of phytoplankton, commonly known as algae. Sometimes fertilizers result in enormous algal blooms, which are not good news. As the phytoplanktonic organisms die and decompose, they reduce the oxygen level of the water. In extreme cases this causes dead zones, inimical to most aquatic life including commercially important fish species. Some algal blooms are toxic and linked to mass shellfish poisoning incidents.
Mitigation
Farmers and gardeners can help reduce pollution by using the minimum amount of nitrogen purifier fertilizer. Annual testing of the soil allows them to judge the precise amount required, and it should be applied at the right time for the crop in question. Extra care with fertilizer should be taken on slopes and near natural bodies of water. Organic alternatives such as compost or manure are a safer option and further reduce, or even eliminate, the need for artificial fertilizers. Storing fertilizers safely away from the elements is important.