Mitigating Nitrogen Pollution through Molybdenum Supplementation: A Review on Enhancing Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Crops

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Paper

Authors

1 Department of environmental science Maharshi dayanand university Rohtak Haryana

2 DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE MAHARSHI DAYANAND UNIVERSITY ROHTAK HARYANA INDIA

3 Department of Environmental ScienceMaharshi Dayanand University: Maharshi Dayan

10.22059/poll.2025.404120.3151

Abstract

With the global population projected to reach 11 billion by 2100, achieving sustainable agriculture is crucial to meet the increasing food demand. Nitrogen fertilizers, though essential for crop productivity, exhibit low use efficiency (30-40%), resulting in environmental pollution and soil nutrient imbalances. Molybdenum (Mo), a critical micronutrient, plays a vital role in enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) by acting as a cofactor for key enzymes like nitrate reductase and nitrogenase, which facilitate nitrogen assimilation and fixation.

This review highlights the significance of Mo supplementation in agriculture, particularly in improving crop yields, nitrogen uptake, and nutritional quality. Research indicates that optimal Mo application boosts chlorophyll synthesis, stress tolerance, and phosphorus uptake while reducing nitrate leaching. Crops such as wheat, rice, and chickpeas show substantial benefits from Mo application under varying soil conditions. However, Mo availability remains limited in acidic and sandy soils, necessitating targeted approaches. The findings underscore Mo's potential to improve NUE, reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers, and promote environmental sustainability. Further exploration of Mo, including advancements in nanotechnology, offers promising prospects for developing efficient, eco-friendly agricultural practices to address global food security challenges.

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Pollution

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 21 December 2025

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