Fertilizer Right: Bolstering Fertilizer Use Efficiency in Pakistan

Due to global events fertilizer prices have sharply increased in recent years. High fertilizer prices have led to insufficient access to fertilizer in low-income countries and reduced agricultural productivity. Additionally, the over-application or misapplication of nitrogen fertilizer can lead to the volatilization of nitrogen to the atmosphere in the form of greenhouse gas (GHG) nitrous oxide (N2O). In June of 2022, the White House issued the Global Fertilizer Challenge in response to the global fertilizer crisis. In response to the Challenge, and with financial support from the U.S. Department of State USDA developed the Fertilize Right initiative. In Pakistan, Fertilize Right will implement training and technical assistance activities to promote the efficient and effective use of fertilizer. The initiative will also explore the use of alternatives to traditional manufactured chemical fertilizers to improve soil health and soil fertility. Fertilize Right Pakistan will be based on the 4Rs of nutrient management, a concept embraced by representatives of the fertilizer industry as well as USDA. The 4Rs of nutrient management represent, 1) Right Source, 2) Right Rate, 3) Right Timing, and 4) Right Placement.