Nitrification inhibitors (NI) are a synthetic compound that slow the conversion of ammonium to nitrate by microorganisms', so-called nitrification, thereby reducing the risk of nitrogen leaching and nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural land. Meta-analyses report significant reductions of nitrogen loss but many questions remain regarding the efficiency, environmental impact and food safety aspects of NI use. NI is currently not used by Swedish farmers.
The purpose of the study is to review current national and international research to fill knowledge gaps regarding the use of NI in slurry and mineral fertilizers. The study is funded by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and will be finalized in spring 2022.