Cost of reactive nitrogen release from human activities to the environment in the United States

摘要: Leakage of reactive nitrogen (N) from human activities to the environment can cause health and ecological problems. Often these harmful effects are not reflected in costs food, fuel, fiber that derive N use. Spatial analyses damage attributable source at management-relevant scales could inform decisions areas where anthropogenic leakage causes harm. We used recently compiled data describing inputs conterminous United States (US) assess potential associated with N. estimated fates leaked (air/deposition, surface freshwater, groundwater, coastal zones) early 2000s by multiplying watershed-level (8-digit US Geologic Survey Hydrologic Unit Codes; HUC8s) published coefficients nutrient uptake efficiency, leaching losses, gaseous emissions. scaled estimates mitigation, remediation, direct damage, substitution health, agriculture, ecosystems, climate (per kg N) calculate annual cost (US dollars 2008 or as reported) per HUC8. Estimates HUC8 ranged <1 125 ha−1 yr−1, most freshwater ecosystems. damages (based on median estimates) $1.94 $2255 yr−1 across watersheds, a $252 yr−1. Eutrophication ecosystems respiratory atmospheric pollution were important HUC8s. However, significant gaps remain our ability fully damages, such algal blooms drinking water contamination. Nationally, environmental totaled $210 billion USD (range: $81–$441 yr−1). While number uncertainties estimates, overall this work represents starting point engage stakeholders pollution.