Nitrous oxide production from soil and manure application: A review

Abstract

The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge about the nitrous oxide (N2 O) production by soils and highlighting future research needs for emission abatement. The article investigates a scientific literature regarding N2 O emissions from the soil according to different factors, such as condition and soil type. Temporal variations can also be explained by the soil temperature and water content. The main review part is focused on solid manure and effluent application to soil. Nitrous oxide gas is formed in soils through the microbiological processes of nitrification and denitrification, and emissions are mainly released after land spreading. Emissions of N2 O are strongly affected by the timing of manure application, reflecting the effects of weather conditions. Key factors for N2 O emissions are the soil moisture, redox potential, available carbon and microbial processes. Recent studies on the effects of seasonal environmental temperature are discussed. Finally, emission factors from land application of solid or effluent manure are listed in table.