Yara’s catalyst technology reduces emissions worldwide

Developed to tackle nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas 270 times more potent than CO₂, Yara’s catalyst technology has helped cut the company’s own emissions by 45% since 2005 and is supporting production plants worldwide in reducing their climate impact.

Yara employee holding catalyst in Porsgrunn, Norway

A proven solution to a global challenge

For over 20 years, Yara’s nitrous oxide (N₂O) abatement catalyst has helped industry tackle one of the world’s most potent greenhouse gases.

The technology, proven to cut N₂O emissions by more than 90% in fertilizer production, has played a vital role in reducing Yara’s own greenhouse gas emissions by 45% since 2005.

Globally, it helps reduce around 30 million tons of CO₂ equivalents (or 110,000 tons of N₂O¹). Installed across production plants on multiple continents, it offers a practical, cost-effective solution to a major climate challenge.

“Yara’s catalyst technology is a game-changer for emissions reduction in nitric acid production. By making this innovation commercially available, we are not only reducing our own footprint but helping the entire industry accelerate its climate efforts.”

Trine Kopperud, Vice President of Global Climate and Energy, Yara

Tackling a silent climate threat

While carbon dioxide and methane dominate climate discussions, nitrous oxide emissions remain a major concern. It is approximately 270 times more potent² than CO₂ over a 100-year period and contributes to stratospheric ozone depletion. Once released, N₂O remains in the atmosphere for an average of 120 years, perpetuating its harmful effects for generations.  

Agriculture is the largest source, but industrial processes, particularly nitric acid production, also contribute significantly.

Recognizing this challenge, Yara made a bold commitment to reducing nitrous oxide emissions. At our Herøya facility in Norway, once a major source of nitrous oxide emissions, a team of researchers set out to develop an innovative solution. 

“Developing an effective catalyst was just the first step. What sets Yara apart is our ability to deliver proven performance across different operating conditions. By working closely with plants worldwide, we continuously refine and optimize our technology to drive efficiency and cut emissions," David Waller, Chief Expert, Catalyst and Electrochemical Technologies, Yara.

The birth of a breakthrough catalyst

In 1997, Yara assembled a team of six researchers, including David Waller and Øystein Nirisen, to develop a durable catalyst capable of withstanding extreme temperatures while maintaining stability and effectiveness. Years of rigorous testing at Yara’s Technology Centre in Norway resulted in a high-porosity catalyst designed for stable performance under severe conditions, breaking down nitrous oxide into harmless nitrogen and oxygen.  

The first prototype was installed in Landskrona, Sweden, in 1999. The first full-scale installation of the present formula took place in Ambès, France, in 2002. A large-scale rollout began in 2010, setting a new industry standard for nitric acid production.

Scalable and cost-effective

Reducing emissions can be a complex and costly challenge, but Yara’s catalyst technology is proven and offers a straightforward and cost-effective way to significantly cut nitrous oxide emissions. Its seamless integration into existing production systems allows for substantial emissions reductions without compromising operational performance.

Built for real-world performance

What differentiates Yara is not just the technology itself but how it is implemented. Yara runs extensive pilot programs to test real-world conditions, troubleshoot potential issues, and optimize efficiency before full-scale implementation. This proactive approach ensures reliability and maximizes emissions reductions for plants worldwide.

Innovation is ongoing, and in December 2024, Yara filed two new patents to further improve catalyst containment systems, demonstrating the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and optimization.

“Pilot testing is essential to ensuring our catalyst performs effectively in real-world conditions. By working directly with plants, we identify challenges, refine solutions, and maximize emissions reductions before full-scale deployment," Øystein Nirisen, Principal Expert, Nitric Acid and Catalyst, Yara.

A proven path to industrial decarbonization

By combining cutting-edge technology with hands-on expertise, Yara’s catalyst technology has transformed industry standards, proving that large-scale emissions reduction is achievable without sacrificing efficiency. With installations spanning multiple continents and industries, this breakthrough continues to help industries worldwide accelerate their efforts to meet ambitious climate goals.