The present book provides factual information about the environmental aspects of modern agriculture, with an emphasis on the issues relating to fertilizer use. The information is drawn from the scientific literature and the text has been reviewed by scientist at universities and independent research institutes.

It is firm conviction that fertilizer, when properly used, is an environmentally benign product which is indispensable in agriculture's task of feeding the worlds population. The material presented in this book substantiates this conviction.

It is hope that this book will contribute to a better understanding of the complexities of agriculture, and will be of value in future discussion of regulation and changes of practice.