Protected Urea
Type Report
Teagasc recently published revised Tier 2 national emission factors for a number of nitrogen based fertlisers which highlighted the high emissions associated with calcium ammonium nitrate (the dominant nitrogen fertiliser used in Ireland). A number of issues were raised by a fertiliser manufacturer relating to the recommendation to switch from CAN fertilisers to protected urea as a means to reduce emissions of the potent greenhouse gas N2O was received. Broadly these issues related to:
- CO2 emissions from urea have not been considered
- The recommendation based on limited data set
- Reducing greenhouse gasses but increasing ammonia emissions.
- Inhibitors yet again introducing another chemical in agriculture
A detailed scientific response was compiled by Teagasc and sent to the fertiliser company and each receipient of the original letter raising these issues. A stakeholder workshop was then held on 31st May 2017 at Teagasc Ashtown. Copies of the presentations can be seen on http://agri-i.ie/2017/06/agri-i-stakeholder-workshop/
Teagasc detailed scientific response can be downloaded on the link below
The issues raised can be viewed at the link below