The Nitrogen Paradox

Paradox refers to the fact that nitrogen is both an essential nutrient for plant growth and a potential pollutant when it enters the environment in excess. Microbes play a critical role in addressing this paradox in agriculture, as they can convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use while reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This process, known as biological nitrogen fixation, has the potential to improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce environmental damage from excess nitrogen.