Kunstgødning

Kunstgødning, a Danish term for synthetic fertilizer, refers to commercially manufactured chemical fertilizers that supply essential nutrients to crops. Unlike organic fertilizers such as manure or compost, kunstgødning is produced industrially and formulated to deliver specific amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK), as well as other nutrients or trace elements.

Most nitrogen fertilizers are produced by converting atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia via the Haber-Bosch process and then processing that ammonia into products such as urea, ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate, or into calcium ammonium nitrate. Phosphorus fertilizers are derived from phosphate rock and processed into compounds such as diammonium phosphate, monoammonium phosphate and superphosphate. Potassium is supplied mainly as potassium chloride or potassium sulfate. Fertilizers are often sold as single-nutrient products or as NPK blends tailored to crop requirements, soil conditions and growth stages.

The use of kunstgødning offers advantages such as high nutrient density, precise formulation, easy handling and storage, and the ability to boost yields and enable intensive farming. However, there are environmental and economic concerns. Runoff and leaching can cause eutrophication and nitrate pollution of water supplies; nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas released during soil processes; production is energy-intensive and dependent on fossil fuels; excessive application can alter soil pH and nutrient balance.

Sustainable use includes soil testing, proper timing and rates, split applications, and adherence to regulations and best management practices to minimize negative impacts.