Nitrogen fertilizers are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide (N₂O), which has a global warming potential 273 times that of CO₂.

Controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs) can offer a solution to the problem of nitrogen losses and associated greenhouse gas emissions. They work by gradually releasing nitrogen in alignment with crop demand, often through physical coatings or other mechanisms that control nutrient availability over time. This improves nitrogen use efficiency, helping to reduce losses from leaching, volatilization, and denitrification.

As a result, CRFs can support higher yields with more efficient use of fertilizer and fewer emissions from field operations. Crucially, by improving how nitrogen is delivered and absorbed, they also enable a reduction in the overall nitrogen application rate. This means lower production-related emissions and reduced in-field emissions, both direct and indirect, from nitrous oxide (N₂O).

This methodology supports projects that replace conventional fertilizers with CRFs in managed soils. It applies globally and can be used for both offsetting and insetting projects. For insetting, direct mitigation within a company’s value chain is preferred, but indirect mitigation may be acceptable if it contributes to long-term value chain transformation.

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