A new UN Global Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) Assessment highlights the urgent need to address rising N₂O emissions, warning that without swift action, limiting global warming to 1.5°C will be unachievable. The report reveals that N₂O, a potent greenhouse gas emitted mainly from agricultural activities, is now the leading ozone-depleting substance and contributes approximately 10% to global warming. Without mitigation, N₂O emissions could expose millions to harmful UV rays and increase rates of skin cancer and cataracts. Reducing N₂O emissions by over 40% could prevent up to 20 million premature deaths from air pollution by 2050 and avoid the equivalent of 235 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions by 2100. The report, launched at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, proposes immediate actions such as transforming agricultural practices and nitrogen management. Tackling N₂O emissions could improve air quality, protect ecosystems, and significantly advance climate, health, and food security goals.

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