Environmental Studies and Forestry

Water quality footprint of agricultural emissions of nitrogen, phosphorus and glyphosate associated with German bioeconomy

A. C. Schomberg, S. Bringezu, et al.

This research reveals alarming insights into the pollution footprint of Germany's bioeconomy, showcasing unprecedented levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and glyphosate emissions. With virtual water needed for dilution surpassing the volume of Lake Constance in 2020, the implications for global water use are profound. Conducted by Anna C. Schomberg, Stefan Bringezu, and Arthur W. H. Beusen, this study emphasizes the critical need for monitoring agricultural practices worldwide.

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Abstract

This study uses the water quality footprint to quantify nitrogen, phosphorus, and glyphosate emissions from agriculture supporting Germany's bioeconomy in 1995 and 2020. The virtual water needed to dilute pollution is vast, exceeding 90 times the volume of Lake Constance in 2020. If dilution were to occur in exporting countries, the required water volume would be far greater than local irrigation needs, potentially exceeding water availability, particularly in China, Spain, and India. The study highlights the global impact of German consumption and the need for monitoring agricultural practices in supplying countries.

Publisher

Communications Earth & Environment

Published On

Nov 02, 2023

Authors

Anna C. Schomberg, Stefan Bringezu, Arthur W. H. Beusen

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