Urease- and nitrification inhibitors for climate and environmental protection: opportunity or risk?

Abstract

Urease and nitrification inhibitors are used in agriculture to reduce ammonia and nitrous oxide emissions and the leaching of nitrate. However, the risks of inhibitors for human health and the environment have not yet been sufficiently investigated. Also, the specific effectiveness of different urease and nitrification inhibitors has not yet been sufficiently clarified. These uncertainties have so far only been partially considered in legal regulations. This paper summarizes the current state of knowledge on the effects of the substances and examines the extent to which the legal regulations take the risks into account. Finally, recommendations are made as to how legal regulations should be changed so that the inhibitors contribute to achieving environmental and climate goals.