The BBC writes that a report from the British Geological Survey says nitrogen stored in the ground beneath us could have severe global-scale consequences for rivers, water supplies, human health and the economy.

The nitrate will be released from the rocks into rivers via springs causing toxic algal blooms and fish deaths.

The report underlines the stark message of the 2015 publication of the Stockholm Environmental Institute, that almost half of the processes that are crucial to maintaining the stability of the planet have become dangerously compromised by human activity. One of these processes is the nitrogen cycle.

Researchers are calling for better policies on management of nitrogen.