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The global nitrogen cycle: past, present and future
1Environmental Sciences Department, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22904, USA. jng@virginia.edu
Science in China. Series C, Life Sciences
|March 4, 2006
Summary
Human activities like food and energy production have significantly altered the global nitrogen (N) cycle. This study contrasts past and present nitrogen distribution, projecting future impacts on environmental and human health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Biogeochemistry
- Ecology
Background:
- Nitrogen (N2) conversion to reactive nitrogen species by human activities impacts ecosystems.
- The global nitrogen cycle is increasingly affected by anthropogenic nitrogen mobilization.
- Understanding nitrogen distribution is crucial for assessing environmental and human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the impact of increased nitrogen mobilization on the global nitrogen cycle.
- To contrast nitrogen distribution in the late-19th century with the late-20th century.
- To project the future state of the global nitrogen cycle for 2050.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of nitrogen distribution across different time periods (late-19th vs. late-20th century).
- Assessment of regional differences in nitrogen distribution.
- Modeling and projection of the global nitrogen cycle for the year 2050.
Main Results:
- Significant alterations in global nitrogen distribution due to anthropogenic activities.
- Identified regional disparities in nitrogen loading and cycling.
- Projected continued and potentially accelerated changes in the global nitrogen cycle by 2050.
Conclusions:
- Human-driven nitrogen mobilization has profoundly impacted the global nitrogen cycle.
- Historical and current data reveal significant shifts in nitrogen distribution.
- Future projections indicate ongoing challenges for ecosystem and human health due to nitrogen pollution.