Trends in Loss of Reactive Nitrogen to the Environment [BIP]
Trends in Loss of Reactive Nitrogen to the Environment [BIP]
Indicator description
nefficient use of fertilizer and/or fossil fuels results in loss of reactive nitrogen to the environment. Eventually, the lost reactive nitrogen to the environment can end up close to water sources or in remote areas located far from human activities, where it is often the dominant source of reactive nitrogen. Once introduced there, the increased reactive nitrogen levels can severely impact associated biodiversity. Reactive nitrogen can also contribute to eutrophication of coastal ecosystems, acidification of forests, soils, and freshwater streams and lakes.
* Reactive nitrogen is chemically and biologically active, and is formed via the conversion of non-reactive atmospheric nitrogen (N2) through artificial fertilizer production and/or fossil fuel burning.
