Reconciling surveillance of the planet’s nitrogen cycle via a multiplex electrochemical sensing platform

Human activity has doubled reactive nitrogen levels, disrupting the Earth’s nitrogen cycle and causing harmful algal blooms, health risks, and greenhouse gas emissions. This project proposes a multiplex sensor platform to measure key nitrogen pollutants—ammonium, nitrate, and nitrous oxide—in real time using advanced electrochemical technology. Current sensing and abatement strategies focus on one pollutant at a time, neglecting complex dynamics such as co-occurrence and interconversion of reactive nitrogen. The platform will enable cost-effective, precise nitrogen management in wastewater treatment and agriculture, reducing fertilizer use, runoff, and N2O emissions. It aims to improve water quality, promote sustainable food production, and support climate change mitigation and environmental goals.