Overview
This report uses satellite imagery to visualize ammonia (NH3) emissions across Wisconsin, revealing when and where this major air pollutant is most concentrated. It connects agricultural activities — particularly fertilizer use and livestock manure management — to air pollution and public health impacts, showing that improved agricultural practices could significantly benefit both air quality and climate resilience.
Key Points
- Ammonia As a Hidden Pollutant: Ammonia emissions from agriculture form fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the atmosphere, contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, premature deaths, and environmental degradation.
- Agriculture Is the Dominant Source: Roughly 90% of U.S. ammonia emissions come from agriculture. In Wisconsin, ammonia contributes to over 20% of the state’s PM2.5 pollution. Hotspots align with fertilizer season in spring and areas dense with large livestock operations in summer.
- Mitigation Is Possible: Simple changes like covering manure storage, incorporating manure/fertilizer into soil, reducing over-application, and adjusting animal feed can meaningfully reduce emissions.
Summary
Most of us rarely think about air pollution in our day-to-day lives because it is often invisible. However, recent advances in satellite imagery provide a way to “see” this pollution that can impact our lives.
One air pollutant that satellites can detect is ammonia. Ammonia is a concerning air pollutant because atmospheric ammonia transforms into fine particulate matter, which is the largest environmental risk factor for negative public health outcomes. Exposure to fine particulate matter can lead to premature death, various respiratory and cardiovascular ailments, and is associated with cancer and nervous system damage.
Reducing ammonia emissions offers multiple co-benefits: improving water quality, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing public health risks. The report encourages Wisconsin policymakers and farmers to adopt best management practices that balance agricultural productivity with environmental protection.
Important Takeaways
- Invisible But Harmful: Ammonia is often unseen but has major health consequences through its role in forming PM2.5.
- Agricultural Dominance: Over 90% of ammonia emissions come from manure and fertilizers.
- Seasonal And Spatial Trends: Emissions peak in spring and shift to livestock regions in summer.
- Mitigation Strategies Exist: Techniques like covering manure pits, spreading during cool/calm days, and optimizing nitrogen feed can reduce emissions significantly.
- Co-Benefits Beyond Air: These same strategies improve water quality, reduce greenhouse gases, and enhance environmental health statewide.
