Sustainable Urease Inhibition in Agriculture: Advances in Chemical Stabilizers and Copper Coordination Polymers

Urease-mediated hydrolysis of urea fertilizer leads to significant nitrogen losses through ammonia volatilization and environmental pollution, posing challenges to sustainable agriculture. Effective urease inhibition is crucial for enhancing nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and minimizing ecological impact. This review examines two promising strategies for urease inhibition: traditional chemical stabilizers and emerging copper coordination polymers (Cu-CPs) engineered via second auxiliary ligands. Chemical stabilizers such as NBPT have demonstrated rapid urease inhibition but suffer from limitations including short duration and environmental instability. In contrast, Cu-CPs offer tunable structural features and sustained release properties, enabling prolonged urease inhibition alongside multifunctional benefits such as antimicrobial activity. Comparative analyses highlight potential synergies between these approaches, including hybrid formulations that combine immediate and long-lasting effects. Key challenges such as environmental safety, field-level validation, and mechanistic understanding are discussed. Finally, the review advocates for a systems-based interdisciplinary approach to develop eco-friendly, cost-effective urease inhibitors that support sustainable nitrogen management and global food security.