<p>Farms across the country are losing massive amounts of nitrogen—74% of what they apply, or about 312,000 tons, is wasted each year. This nitrogen, meant to nourish crops, instead ends up polluting our air and soil. Most of it comes from over-f
<p>Farms across the country are losing massive amounts of nitrogen—74% of what they apply, or about 312,000 tons, is wasted each year. This nitrogen, meant to nourish crops, instead ends up polluting our air and soil. Most of it comes from over-fertilization, an issue that has put the Netherlands at the top of the list among OECD nations for nitrogen use CITE. The effects of this issue extend beyond just the environment; they also deeply affect farmers who are striving to care for their crops amidst increasing environmental challenges. In fact, the production of synthetic fertilizers alone accounts for nearly 2% of global CO <sub>2</sub> emissions CITE.</p>
<p>For staple crops like cereals and maize, up to 40% of farm operating costs go toward fertilizers CITE, and the rising costs have triggered protests across Europe, with Dutch farmers at the forefront CITE. Attempts to curb nitrogen emissions in the Netherlands have only deepened the tension.</p>
<p>The consequences of over-fertilization are profound, leading to environmental devastation such as harmful algal blooms, air pollution, and serious health risks. Yet, despite its harmful effects, fertilizer is critical for boosting crop yields at a time when the global population is growing and food demand continues to skyrocket. Tackling this problem is not just a national issue—it’s a global priority that demands immediate and innovative solutions.</p>
