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Advancing Global Nitrogen Management

Youth Insights from the Fifth Meeting of the UNEP Working Group on Nitrogen


The Fifth Meeting of the UNEP Working Group on Nitrogen, held on January 9-10, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya and online, marked a significant milestone in the global effort to address nitrogen pollution towards the sustainable management of Nitrogen. Delegates, including representatives from member states, major groups, and stakeholders, gathered to discuss sustainable nitrogen management plans and strategies, underscoring the growing global interest in tackling this critical environmental concern.


The meeting provided a platform for fruitful discussions, informative presentations, and the development of actionable recommendations. A key focus was the urgent need for clear and inclusive National Action Plans (NAPs) for sustainable nitrogen management. Delegates stressed the importance of coordinated efforts on a national level to address the dynamic challenges posed by nitrogen pollution. This recognition emphasizes the critical role of national initiatives ,such as the presentation made by the delegates of the government of Japan and Netherlands, in the broader context of global nitrogen management.


Discussions highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive approach to nitrogen management, engriding technological, policy, and behavioral interventions throughout the entire nitrogen supply chain and life cycle. Delegates advocated for integrated sustainable nitrogen management practices to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of nitrogen pollution. The link between reactive nitrogen and ozone depletion, climate change, and greenhouse gas emissions was emphasized, underscoring the urgency of addressing nitrogen-related issues.


A significant recommendation arising from the meeting was the alignment of national nitrogen action plans (NAPs) with global initiatives such as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSA). This alignment was deemed crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and integration of sustainable nitrogen management efforts at the national level.


The meeting also critically evaluated UNEA Resolutions 5/2 and 4/14. Resolution 5/2, emphasizing encouragement and voluntary action plans, was scrutinized for lacking concrete mechanisms and accountability measures. Resolution 4/14 was deemed insufficient in providing recommendations for effective policy instruments and addressing information gaps. Delegates stressed the need for improved monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress and assess policy effectiveness. 


The discussions brought attention to the fossil fuel-nitrogen nexus, particularly in industrial ammonia production for fertilizers. Delegates called for policies encouraging green ammonia production, investing in renewable energy sources, and targeting emissions reduction throughout the nitrogen value chain.


The meeting concluded with a final call for global cooperation, urging all member states to prioritize the development and implementation of clear and inclusive national action plans for sustainable nitrogen management. The outcomes of the Fifth UNEP Working Group on Nitrogen Meeting serve as a crucial guide for policymakers, environmentalists, and stakeholders, emphasizing the urgency and complexity of addressing nitrogen pollution on a global scale.


As the focus shifts towards the 6th session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6), the discussions and recommendations from this meeting will play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable nitrogen management. The journey continues, with the commitment to a healthier planet and a more sustainable future.


Note: The views and opinions expressed in this document are solely those of the authors and may not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of their respective employers or any other affiliated organizations. The content provided is for informational purposes only and has been prepared from the authors' own research and personal experiences as of the date of publication.


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