Climate Change and Nitrogen Dynamics: Challenges and Strategies for a Sustainable Future

Abstract

Global warming driven by climate change has profound impacts on nitrogen dynamics in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The increased emissions of greenhouse gases alter the distribution and availability of nitrogen, which is a critical nutrient for all living organisms. This review examines the connections between climate change and nitrogen cycling, highlighting the adverse effects on ecosystem health and productivity. The proliferation of nitrogen pollution due to agricultural runoff, industrial effluents, and urban wastewater aggravates eutrophication, leading to significant environmental and economic consequences. The imbalance in nitrogen availability not only affects plant growth and soil fertility but also disrupts aquatic ecosystems, resulting in harmful algal blooms and hypoxic conditions. Effective mitigation and adaptation strategies are essential to addressing these challenges. Sustainable agricultural practices, such as precision farming and the use of slow-release fertilizers, along with robust policies and innovative technologies, like biochar application and nitrification inhibitors, are essential in managing nitrogen levels. This review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches that involve integrating insights from ecology, agronomy, and the social sciences to develop comprehensive solutions. Future research should focus on long-term studies to assess the cumulative impacts of climatic changes on nitrogen availability and ecosystem health to guide policies and management practices for sustainable development.