![Loading Events](https://ekamiasacademy.com/wp-content/plugins/the-events-calendar/src/resources/images/tribe-loading.gif)
- This event has passed.
1-March-2024-Special-Article
March 1 @ 7:00 am - 11:30 pm
RISING NITROGEN POLLUTION THREATENS RIVER SUB-BASINS AROUND THE WORLD
Recent research highlights a concerning projection for global river sub-basins, anticipating severe clean water scarcity due to nitrogen pollution by 2050. Nitrogen pollution, primarily from nitrogen-based fertilizers and industrial processes, poses significant threats to water bodies and ecosystems.
What is Nitrogen Pollution?
Definition:
- Nitrogen pollution refers to the excessive presence of nitrogen compounds in water bodies, primarily rivers and lakes.
- Annually, 200 million tonnes of reactive nitrogen, 80% of the total, is lost to the environment, largely due to human activities.
Drivers of Nitrogen Pollution:
- Rising consumption of nitrogen-based fertilizers, doubling globally between 1978 and 2014, is a major contributor.
- Human-produced reactive nitrogen now surpasses that generated through natural processes.
Sources of Nitrogen Pollution:
- Agricultural Activities: Increased use of nitrogen-based fertilizers leads to leaching into groundwater and runoff into surface water bodies.
- Industrial Processes:
- Manufacturing nitrogen-based chemicals and fertilizers releases nitrogen compounds into the environment.
- Combustion of fossil fuels in industries emits nitrogen oxides (NOx) into the atmosphere.
- Livestock Farming: Livestock waste, rich in nitrogen compounds, contributes to contamination when not managed properly.
- Biomass Burning: Wildfires and burning of biomass release nitrogen oxides (NOx) and nitrous oxide (N2O) into the atmosphere.
Major Impacts of Nitrogen Pollution:
- Eutrophication: Excess nitrogen acts as a nutrient, causing algal blooming and leading to oxygen-depleted dead zones in water bodies.
- Human Health Impacts: Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in the air exacerbates respiratory conditions, and nitrate contamination of drinking water poses health risks.
- Ozone Depletion: Nitrous oxide (N2O) contributes to stratospheric ozone layer depletion, raising health risks and harming ecosystems.
Related Government Initiatives:
- Bharat Stage (BS VI) Emission Standards: Stricter emission standards aim to curb nitrogen oxides and particulate matter release from vehicles and industries.
- Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS): Incentivizes the use of controlled-release fertilizers for efficient nutrient management.
- Soil Health Cards: Provides farmers with soil nutrient status and tailored fertilizer recommendations for balanced nutrient application.
- Nano Urea: A patented fertilizer, reducing unbalanced urea use and enhancing crop productivity.
Way Forward:
- Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Implementing precision agriculture and cover cropping can minimize fertilizer use and reduce pollution.
- Improved Wastewater Treatment: Upgrading wastewater treatment infrastructure prevents nitrogen-rich compounds from entering water bodies.
- Incentivizing Green Infrastructure: Offering incentives for green infrastructure projects helps absorb and filter stormwater, mitigating nitrogen runoff.
- Enhancing Public Awareness: Raising awareness about responsible water and nitrogen management promotes sustainable practices and reduces pollution.
Mains Question:
- Discuss the impact of rising nitrogen pollution on global river sub-basins and its implications for water scarcity by 2050. (150 WORDS)