Nitrogen Overload: Environmental Degradation, Ramifications, and Economic Costs

An integrated approach to understanding and mitigating the problem of excess nitrogen

Human activities generate large amounts of excess nitrogen, which has dramatically altered the nitrogen cycle. Reactive forms of nitrogen, especially nitrate and ammonia, are particularly detrimental. Given the magnitude of the problem, there is an urgent need for information on reactive nitrogen and its effective management.

Nitrogen Overload: Environmental Degradation, Ramifications, and Economic Costs presents an integrated, multidisciplinary review of alterations to the nitrogen cycle over the past century and the wide-ranging consequences of nitrogen-based pollution, especially to aquatic ecosystems and human health.

Volume highlights include: 

• Comprehensive background information on the nitrogen cycle
• Detailed description of anthropogenic nitrogen sources
• Review of the environmental, economic, and health impacts of nitrogen pollution
• Recommendations and strategies for reducing humanity's nitrogen footprint
• Discussion of national nitrogen footprints and worldwide examples of mitigation policies

The American Geophysical Union promotes discovery in Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. Its publications disseminate scientific knowledge and provide resources for researchers, students, and professionals.