Study Finds Ammonia from Pig Farms Contributes to Nitrous Oxide Emissions in China

Research by the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals that ammonia from intensive pig farming in south-central China leads to significant nitrous oxide emissions. Annual soil N₂O emissions near a pig farm reached 69.7 kg N yr⁻¹, driven by ammonia-oxidizing archaea. The study highlights the underreported climate impact of livestock-derived ammonia and suggests that mitigation strategies must include ammonia control.

Published Mar 23, 2026

A study by the Chinese Academy of Sciences indicates that ammonia (NH₃) from pig farms is a significant contributor to nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions. Near a pig farm in south-central China, annual soil N₂O emissions were measured at 69.7 kg N yr⁻¹, representing 1.3% of deposited NH₃-N.

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The research combined field monitoring and lab experiments, revealing that ammonia-oxidizing archaea mediate nitrification, leading to increased N₂O emissions. Current estimates of livestock-related climate impacts may be understated, necessitating ammonia control through improved manure management and dietary adjustments.