The race for eco-friendly ammonia production heats up

In a bid to tackle the climate crisis, companies are innovating to create green ammonia, aiming to revolutionize agriculture and fuel industries.

Chris Baraniuk reports for the BBC.


In short:

  • Green ammonia production seeks to reduce the carbon footprint of traditional fertilizer manufacturing, which is responsible for nearly 2% of global CO2 emissions.
  • Innovative companies are developing technologies to produce ammonia using renewable energy sources, potentially transforming it into a cleaner fuel alternative.
  • Small-scale, efficient production methods could significantly cut transportation emissions and make fertilizer use more sustainable.

Key quote:

"We're seeing real progress in [the] development of ammonia cracking technology."

— Lindsey Motlow, senior research associate at Darcy Partners

Why this matters:

The shift toward green ammonia is crucial for reducing global greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainable agriculture. This innovation not only promises a cleaner environment but also supports the global push towards renewable energy sources, impacting health outcomes by contributing to a reduction in air pollution.

Be sure to read Elizabeth Ouzts’ article about using biogas to clear the air near hog farms.

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