Nitrogen footprint warning from European agency
This article is more than 11 years old
New study says nitrogen pollution costs every person in Europe £650 a year in damage to water, climate, health and wildlife
A report from the European Nitrogen Assessment suggests that 60% of the costs of nitrogen damage stem from fossil fuels burned for energy generation and transport. Photograph: Peter Andrews/Reuters
Press Association
Sun 10 Apr 2011 17.14 EDT
Nitrogen pollution is costing every person in Europe up to £650 a year in damage to water, climate, health and wildlife, a study warns.
Scientists behind the research said nitrogen was needed as fertiliser to help feed a growing world population – but suggested that eating less meat could reduce the amount of pollution caused by agriculture.
The report for the European Nitrogen Assessment (ENA) also suggests with 60% of costs of the nitrogen damage stemming from fossil fuels burned for energy generation and transport, more energy-efficient homes and less long-distance travel could help.
More efficient use of fertilisers in food production is also needed, the report said.
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2011/apr/10/nitrogen-footprint-europe-warning
