Efficient Nitrogen Management Technologies for Sustainable Rice Production

The use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers in rice fields as a source of nutrition is the major source of emission of nitrous oxide (N2O). Two key factors which control the flux of N2O at the field level are the amount of N supplied and the efficiency at which it is absorbed by plants. To reduce the N2O emissions, optimum N fertilizer application (in terms of input rate and time of application) and ideal fertilizer selection are crucial. Optimizing N use efficiency (NUE) is crucial to sustain productivity and profitability. Depending on edaphic and climatic conditions, improved N management can dramatically cut greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions. Producers must ensure that the kind, rate, and time of N application do not result in substantial losses owing to volatilization, leaching, or denitrification. Adoption of best nitrogen management practices like deep placement of urea, use of nitrification inhibitors, urease inhibitors, and slow-release nitrogen fertilizers will reduce the N loss and increase NUE. The goal of this review is to discuss in detail the various technologies that have been developed and refined to improve NUE and protect the environment.