Ecosystem services altered by human changes in the nitrogen cycle: a new perspective for US decision making

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecosystem Services
• Biogeochemical Cycles

Background:

• Human activities significantly alter the nitrogen (N) cycle, leading to environmental degradation.
• Excess N pollution negatively impacts ecosystem services, including air and water quality.
• US environmental regulations link environmental protection directly to ecosystem services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review scientific data quantifying the effects of nitrogen on key ecosystem services.
• To compare the costs of N-related environmental impacts and mitigation strategies.
• To provide an integrated view of N pollution for decision-makers.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific studies on nitrogen impacts.
• Quantification of N effects on ecosystem services.
• Cost-benefit analysis comparing N damage costs and abatement costs.

Main Results:

• Damage costs for impaired air quality (e.g., respiratory health) are substantial ($28 per kg NO(x)-N).
• Costs associated with damages to productivity, biodiversity, recreation, and water quality are variable (<$2.2-56 per kg N).
• In the Chesapeake Bay, N damage costs exceed projected abatement costs ($8-15 per kg N).

Conclusions:

• Accounting for multiple ecosystem services offers a comprehensive perspective on N pollution.
• Integrated assessment of N sources, damages, and abatement costs is essential for effective pollution control.
• Addressing nitrogen pollution challenges requires explicit consideration of ecosystem service impacts.