Geography and environment

Nitrogen Pollution: A Global Threat to Clean Water

Introduction and About

Nitrogen pollution refers to the overabundance of nitrogen compounds in ecosystems, primarily in rivers and lakes.
This pollution is the result of human activities and is currently leading to a severe threat to clean water supplies.

A recent study projects that approximately one-third of global river sub-basins will face serious clean water shortage by 2050 due to nitrogen pollution.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), each year, over 200 million tonnes of reactive nitrogen, forming 80% of the total, is lost to the environment.
Major contributors to nitrogen pollution include a growing consumption of nitrogen-based fertilisers, harmful industrial processes, livestock farming, and biomass burning.

Excessive amounts of nitrogen lead to eutrophication or the overgrowth of algae and aquatic plants, creating oxygen-depleted zones where aquatic life suffocates and dies.
High levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) exacerbate respiratory problems such as asthma and can increase the risk of respiratory infections.
Nitrate contamination in drinking water is a serious health risk, known to cause methemoglobinemia or "blue baby syndrome" in infants.
Nitrous oxide (N2O) depletion of the ozone layer increases the risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems in humans, besides damaging marine ecosystems and crops.

The Indian government has launched several initiatives to curb nitrogen pollution, including the Bharat Stage (BS VI) Emission Standards, Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS), issuance of Soil Health Cards, and the introduction of Nano Urea.

Nitrogen is a vital constituent of living organisms and is present in forms of amino acids, proteins, hormones, chlorophylls, and vitamins.
Nitrogen needs to be ‘fixed’ before plants can take it up, which is achieved through N-fixing microbes, industrial processes, and atmospheric lighting.

Implementing sustainable agricultural practices and improving wastewater treatment can significantly curtail nitrogen pollution.
Green infrastructure should be incentivized to encourage eco-friendly development and curb pollution.

In 2019, the United Nations Environment Assembly adopted a resolution calling for sustainable nitrogen management.
It's crucial for nations worldwide to implement this recommendation and reduce the environmental damage caused by irresponsible nitrogen management practices.