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Andrea Moring, Dave Reay, and Tariq Aziz

We have to feed the world population but, currently, we do this at the expense of environment, climate and human health due to nitrogen pollution from the use of fertilizers. This is the nitrogen challenge, one of the biggest environmental challenges of the 21st century.

Developing and improving nitrogen science globally could bring us closer to the solution. To do this, good measurements are key, providing us with information on the nitrogen status of the soil and the plants it nurtures. This can help us in understanding the underlying processes, establishing a solid basis for effective nitrogen management strategies.

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We have to feed the world population but, currently, we do this at the expense of environment, climate and human health due to nitrogen pollution from the use of fertilizers. This is the nitrogen challenge, one of the biggest environmental challenges of the 21st century.

Developing and improving nitrogen science globally could bring us closer to the solution. To do this, good measurements are key, providing us with information on the nitrogen status of the soil and the plants it nurtures. This can help us in understanding the underlying processes, establishing a solid basis for effective nitrogen management strategies.

In this course, we provide training in:

  • greenhouse gas flux measurements with closed static chambers,
  • ammonia flux measurements with a dynamic chamber,
  • a suite of widely-used plant and soil nitrogen measurements.

The scientists of the South Asian Nitrogen Hub bring you guided training videos on measurement methods and laboratory analyses accompanied by detailed descriptions of procedures and calculations, as well as many downloadable materials useful both on the field and in the lab.

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the importance of ammonia and greenhouse gases and why leaching is an important process within the nitrogen cycle.
  • Acquire the knowledge of the closed static chamber method for measuring greenhouse gas fluxes, learn how to do the lab analyses and calculate greenhouse gas fluxes.
  • Get training in ammonia flux measurements with dynamic chambers, find out how to analyze the ammonia samples and how to use them in flux calculations.
  • Gain insight into plant and soil sampling, learn how to analyze them in the lab, and calculate the nitrogen budget.

Syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to nitrogen-related field measurements
Introduction to the measured gases (ammonia and greenhouse gases) and the process of leaching.
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Week 2: Greenhouse gas flux measurements using closed chambers
Principles of closed static chamber measurements, how to install a chamber and take samples, how to analyse samples and calculate fluxes.
Week 3: Ammonia measurement with a dynamic chamber
Introduction to dynamic chamber measurements, how to build and install a chamber, how to take samples, lab analysis and flux calculations.
Week 4: Plant and soil nitrogen measurements
How to collect plant samples and analyse them in the lab, principles of soil and leachate sampling, physical and chemical analysis of soil and leachate samples, calculation of the nitrogen budget.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides training in ammonia flux measurements with dynamic chambers, which is valuable for understanding ammonia emissions
Develops essential skills in greenhouse gas flux measurements using closed static chambers, aiding in the assessment of greenhouse gas emissions
Taught by recognized scientists from the South Asian Nitrogen Hub, ensuring high-quality instruction
Focuses on plant and soil nitrogen measurements, providing comprehensive knowledge of nitrogen dynamics within ecosystems
Explores the importance of ammonia and greenhouse gases in the nitrogen cycle, addressing a critical environmental challenge

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Nitrogen-related field measurements with these activities:
Review key concepts in environmental science
Refreshing your knowledge in environmental science will strengthen your foundation for this course.
Browse courses on Environmental Science
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  • Review your lecture notes or textbooks.
  • Complete practice questions or quizzes.
Review analytical chemistry techniques
Refreshing your analytical chemistry skills will set a strong foundation for the coursework.
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  • Review your lecture notes from previous courses.
  • Complete practice problems covering basic concepts.
Form study groups with classmates
Study groups can foster collaboration, enhance understanding, and provide support.
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  • Connect with classmates online or in person.
  • Organize regular study sessions to discuss course material.
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Follow tutorials on greenhouse gas flux measurements
These tutorials will provide practical guidance on methodologies used in the field.
Browse courses on Greenhouse Gas Emissions
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  • Search online for tutorials from reputable sources.
  • Follow the instructions and complete the exercises.
Solve practice problems on nitrogen cycle processes
Practice will reinforce your understanding and prepare you for assessments.
Browse courses on Nitrogen Cycle
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  • Review the nitrogen cycle and its processes.
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
  • Solve the problems and check your answers.
Design an experiment to measure ammonia flux
Creating an experiment will deepen your understanding of the measurement methods covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Review the principles of ammonia flux measurement.
  • Design an experimental setup and protocol.
  • Describe the data analysis methods you will use.
Develop infographics on nitrogen pollution
Creating infographics will help you synthesize and communicate the impact of nitrogen pollution.
Browse courses on Nitrogen Pollution
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  • Research different aspects of nitrogen pollution.
  • Design visually appealing infographics that convey the information clearly.
Contribute to open-source projects related to nitrogen management
Contributing to open-source projects will expose you to practical applications and enhance your understanding.
Browse courses on Nitrogen Management
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  • Identify open-source projects related to nitrogen management.
  • Review the project documentation and codebase.
  • Find an area where you can contribute, such as coding, documentation, or testing.

Career center

Learners who complete Nitrogen-related field measurements will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Research Scientist
Research scientists conduct research to advance scientific knowledge and develop new technologies. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to conduct research on the nitrogen cycle and its environmental impacts. This knowledge can help you develop new technologies and strategies to reduce nitrogen pollution.
Plant Breeder
Plant breeders develop new varieties of plants with improved traits, such as yield, disease resistance, and nutritional value. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the nitrogen use efficiency of different plant varieties. This knowledge can help you develop new plant varieties that are more efficient at using nitrogen, leading to reduced nitrogen pollution.
Soil Scientist
Soil scientists study the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the nitrogen status of soils and develop soil management strategies. This knowledge can help you develop and implement sustainable soil management practices that minimize nitrogen pollution.
Agronomist
In this role, you will develop and implement strategies to improve crop yields and quality. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are essential for understanding the nitrogen status of crops and soils. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about nitrogen management, leading to increased crop yields and improved soil health.
Agricultural Consultant
As an agricultural consultant, you will help farmers improve their crop yields and protect the environment. Nitrogen-related field measurements play an important role in assessing the health of crops and soils, and this course provides training in key measurement techniques. This training can help you provide valuable advice to farmers on how to manage nitrogen fertilizers more effectively.
Water Quality Scientist
Water quality scientists study the quality of water and develop strategies to protect water resources. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the nitrogen content of water and identify sources of nitrogen pollution. This knowledge can help you develop and implement effective water quality management strategies.
Environmental Consultant
As an environmental consultant, you will help businesses and organizations reduce their environmental impact. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the environmental impact of agricultural activities. This knowledge can help you develop and implement effective environmental management strategies for your clients.
Horticulturist
A horticulturist is a person who is involved in the cultivation of plants for food, medicinal purposes, or landscaping. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are essential for understanding the nitrogen status of plants and soils. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about nitrogen management, leading to increased plant growth and quality.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the environmental impact of human activities. This knowledge can help you conduct research and develop policies to protect the environment.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study the biology and behavior of wildlife. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the impact of nitrogen pollution on wildlife populations. This knowledge can help you develop and implement conservation strategies to protect wildlife from the harmful effects of nitrogen pollution.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the environmental impact of human activities. This knowledge can help you develop and implement effective environmental remediation strategies.
Natural Resources Manager
Natural resources managers oversee the management of natural resources, such as forests, water, and wildlife. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the environmental impact of human activities on natural resources. This knowledge can help you develop and implement sustainable management strategies.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts develop and evaluate policies to address public issues. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the environmental impact of policies. This knowledge can help you develop and evaluate policies that effectively reduce nitrogen pollution.
Nutritionist
Nutritionists provide advice on diet and nutrition to individuals and groups. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the nutritional status of individuals and populations. This knowledge can help you provide evidence-based nutrition advice and develop effective nutrition programs.
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, such as parks, gardens, and campuses. This course provides training in nitrogen-related field measurements, which are used to assess the environmental impact of landscaping practices. This knowledge can help you design and implement sustainable landscapes that minimize nitrogen pollution.

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Nitrogen-related field measurements.
Offers in-depth coverage of nitrogen fixation, including its biochemistry, regulation, and practical applications. It complements the course's focus on nitrogen-related measurements by providing a comprehensive background on nitrogen fixation processes.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of plant nutrition and soil fertility, covering essential nutrients like nitrogen. It serves as a valuable reference for understanding the principles behind nitrogen management and its impact on plant growth.
Provides a comprehensive overview of nitrogen cycling in terrestrial ecosystems. It complements the course's focus on nitrogen-related measurements by offering a deeper understanding of the complex processes involved in nitrogen cycling.
This textbook covers the fundamentals of soil chemistry and its applications in environmental management. It provides a valuable reference for understanding the chemical processes related to nitrogen cycling and its impact on soil health.
Covers the essential aspects of nitrogen management in crop production systems. It serves as a valuable reference for understanding the principles and practices of nitrogen fertilization and its impact on crop yield and quality.
Delves into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of nitrogen fixation. It provides a valuable background for understanding the biochemistry and regulation of nitrogen fixation processes.
Focuses on nitrogen cycling in lake ecosystems. It provides insights into the specific dynamics and processes of nitrogen cycling in aquatic environments, complementing the course's emphasis on terrestrial nitrogen measurements.
Provides a timely overview of nitrogen and its role in global change. It offers a broader perspective on nitrogen's impact on various ecosystems and its implications for environmental policy and management.

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