Ammoniakbelasting

Ammoniakbelasting refers to the environmental impact caused by ammonia emissions, primarily from agriculture. Ammonia (NH3) is a gas that is released from animal manure and fertilizers. When released into the atmosphere, it can travel long distances and contribute to various environmental problems.

One significant issue is the deposition of ammonia onto natural ecosystems. This deposition can lead to soil acidification, which harms plant growth and biodiversity. It can also cause eutrophication of surface waters, leading to algal blooms and oxygen depletion, negatively impacting aquatic life. Furthermore, ammonia contributes to the formation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air, which has adverse effects on human health, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

In agricultural settings, ammonia emissions represent a loss of nitrogen, a valuable nutrient for crops. This loss can necessitate the application of more fertilizer, creating a cycle of increased emissions and environmental pressure. Regulations and management practices aimed at reducing ammonia emissions are in place in many countries, focusing on improving manure management, optimizing fertilizer application, and developing alternative farming techniques. The goal is to mitigate the detrimental effects of ammonia on air quality, ecosystems, and human health.