The United Nations has released a pivotal Global Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) Assessment at the COP29 Climate Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, highlighting the alarming acceleration of N₂O emissions and their severe impact on climate change and the ozone layer. The report underscores the need for immediate action, showing that nitrous oxide emissions are increasing at an unprecedented rate, primarily due to agricultural activities like the use of synthetic fertilizers and manure. N₂O, approximately 270 times more potent than carbon dioxide in warming potential, is now responsible for around 10% of net global warming since the industrial era and remains the most impactful ozone-depleting substance currently released into the atmosphere.
The Assessment reveals that comprehensive abatement of N₂O emissions could prevent up to 235 billion tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions by 2100—equal to six years’ worth of current global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels. The report outlines actionable strategies that could reduce N₂O emissions by over 40%, with additional reductions achievable through sustainable changes in nitrogen management and food production systems.
Industry experts highlighted the multiple benefits of proactive N₂O abatement. Not only would reducing N₂O support the climate and ozone layer recovery, but it would also enhance air and water quality, benefiting ecosystems and human health. Such efforts align with the sustainable development goals set by the Paris Agreement and are essential for limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
The Assessment calls for transforming agricultural practices and managing nitrogen use more sustainably. Beyond mitigating climate change, such efforts would reduce nitrogen runoff, improving water and soil quality, and protecting biodiversity. Achieving these reductions would support cleaner air, help prevent millions of premature deaths by 2050, and boost global food security by enabling sustainable agricultural productivity.
The findings stress the critical need for continued and committed action under frameworks like the Montreal Protocol, especially given N₂O’s significant role as an ozone-depleting substance. With immediate implementation of the abatement tools outlined, the Assessment provides a clear path to achieving long-term climate, environmental, and health goals.
