Review on enhancing the efficiency of fertilizer utilization: Strategies for optimal nutrient management

The increasing global population and growing demand for food and mineral fertilizers underscore the urgent need to enhance fertilizer efficiency. This imperative emphasizes the importance of sustainable fertilizer utilization while mitigating environmental impacts, particularly in addressing agricultural water pollution. Excessive fertilizer use contributes significantly to water contamination and food shortages worldwide. In 2018, food shortages were reported in many nations, including the United States (2.3%), Canada (4.6%), the United Kingdom (8.2%), Germany (2.6%), Japan (2.9%), Ethiopia (23.4%), Ivory Coast (22.4%), Bangladesh (12.7%), Pakistan (17.2%), Haiti (45.6%), and India (14.3%). Moreover, agricultural activities, particularly the use of mineral fertilizers, are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Inefficient fertilizer practices lead to economic losses, environmental degradation, and food insecurity. Studies reveal that in sub-Saharan Africa, farmers receive only about $0.50 in increased productivity for every dollar spent on fertilizer due to inefficiencies. The economic cost of nutrient pollution in the European Union is estimated to range between <euro>7 billion and <euro>10 billion annually. Effective strategies like precision nutrient management, best practices, and innovative technologies optimize fertilizer efficiency and support agricultural sustainability. Besides, promising methods include the combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, the application of remote sensing and geographical information system technologies, and the implementation of biological approaches to enhance nutrient management. Moreover, monitoring and evaluation are essential for assessing strategy effectiveness, guiding decision-making, and taking corrective actions. Hence, this review aims to address strategies for improving fertilizer efficiency, sustainable agriculture practices, and addressing food security and environmental concerns related to fertilizer use comprehensively.