Improve Nutrient Management
Scientific Reports
Grades9, 10, 11, 12, APBiology, Earth and Space Sciences
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Project Drawdown
What it is
- This report from Project Drawdown explores the reduction of excess nitrogen fertilizers as a highly recommended action that reduces climate emissions.
- Students will understand the benefits of this solution, the drawbacks, its potential for emissions reductions, and the potential costs and barriers to implementation.
Teaching tips
Positives
- This solution has many additional benefits that benefit people and wildlife, giving the reader hope for the future.
- Students will enjoy manipulating the interactive data tables and comparing outcomes.
Prerequisites
- While students may be familiar with carbon dioxide, they may need more information on how nitrous oxide behaves as a greenhouse gas.
- Teachers should note that some of the pages that are linked in the report may be under construction.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Teachers can use this article as part of a larger unit to discuss the impact of agricultural practices on the climate and more sustainable alternatives. Teachers can also use this video in the unit.
- To make connections to the Sustainable Development Goals, teachers can point out that this solution is focused on SDG 13, Climate Action, but it also supports many of the other goals. Looking at the Additional Benefits section, students can connect benefits to the SDGs they support.
- Teachers can use a jigsaw method, having the whole class read the first few paragraphs of the report, then assigning the collapsed options to student pairs or groups.
From the scientist review
This resource analyzes improving nutrient management in agriculture as a means to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This drawdown solution is exceptionally well-sourced and features a thoughtful discussion, including a look at additional benefits of improved nutrient management. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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