Evaluación del impacto ambiental del uso de fertilizantes nitrogenados en la producción de banano (Musa spp.): Environmental impact assessment of the use of nitrogen fertilizers in banana (Musa spp.) production

Environmental impact assessment of the use of nitrogen fertilizers in banana (Musa spp.) production

Abstract

Bananas (Musa spp.) are one of the most economically important fruit crops in the world, with special relevance in Ecuador, the main exporter since the mid-twentieth century. The intensive production model adopted in tropical systems has depended on the sustained application of nitrogen fertilizers to maintain high yields; however, its excessive use has generated significant environmental impacts. Among the main effects are the leaching of nitrates into surface and groundwater, the emission of nitrous oxide (N₂O) – a gas with a high global warming potential – and acidification processes and alteration of the microbiological dynamics of the soil. The present study developed a systematic literature review with comparative statistical synthesis of research published between 2000 and 2025, with the purpose of evaluating the relationship between nitrogen doses and agri-environmental indicators in tropical banana systems. Variables such as annual dose applied (kg N ha⁻¹ year⁻¹), yield, nitrogen use efficiency (EUN), nitrate concentrations in water and N₂O emissions were analyzed. The results show that applications greater than 300 kg N ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ are associated with a decrease in EUN (less than 55%) and a greater risk of environmental losses. It is concluded that the optimization of nitrogen fertilization is decisive to improve productive sustainability, reduce environmental externalities and strengthen the competitiveness of the banana system.