Ammonia (NH3) is a major atmospheric pollutant linked to the formation of secondary aerosols and negatively affects ecosystems, primarily due to emissions from livestock agriculture in Switzerland.
Although modeled NH3 emissions have slightly decreased since 2000, actual concentration measurements show no such decline, partly due to reduced conversion to particulate ammonium from lower oxidized nitrogen and sulfur emissions.
NH3 depositions lead to ecosystem issues like eutrophication and acidification, with 2020 studies showing significant adverse impacts on various natural habitats in Switzerland, indicating a need for improved emission control measures.