The production of quality food in sufficient quantity to guarantee food security is one of the most important challenges facing society today. Production systems are being reformulated to achieve this objective, increasing productivity in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.

Nitrogen (N) is a key nutrient for the correct production of maize. The main reason is the positive cost/benefit ratio, resulting from the high productive response of the crop. The best nutrition strategies are those included in the Best Management Practices (BMP) for fertilization: adequate Dose based on diagnostic tools such as Soil Analysis, Timing and correct application Method and Sources that ensure a balanced fertilization and nutrient use efficiency.

Choosing to work with MPMs not only allows for greater efficiencies in the use of applied nutrients, but also maximizes production and efficiency in the use of other resources and inputs, maintains and improves soil fertility, and protects the environment by helping to increase adaptability to climate change, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and increase soil carbon sequestration. Studies by the IFA (International Fertilizer Association) have shown that the use of MPMs can reduce GHG emissions by between 7 and 14%.

When we talk about MPMs for nutrition we also talk about improved fertilizer sources such as eNeTOTAL Plus, a nitrogen source (46% N) that has the urease inhibitor Limus (BASF), which:

1- Reduces N losses by volatilization of ammonia in surface applications; 2 – Grants greater stability in the formulation allowing storage of the product for more than 200 days; and

3- Decreases indirect emissions of nitrous oxide, one of the GHGs.

Studies from the Profertil maize testing network (12 years) proved that on average there is an yield increase 640 kg corn/hectare, with a 21% reduction in GHG emissions and an increase in Carbon Sequestration, achieving a 30% reduction in net emissions (gross emissions – C sequestration) and a 40% increase in Efficiency, in terms of kg of grain produced/kg CO2-eq emitted.

All agricultural schemes will have some degree of emission. Our achievement must be greater efficiency, emitting less per kg of grain or green matter produced and thus achieve a more sustainable agricultural production.