Field-scale modelling of carbon and nitrogen dynamics in soils amended with urban waste composts

Simulated N fluxes showed that the organic amendments induced an additional leaching ranging from 1 to 8 kg N ha−1 yr−1, which can be related to the initial mineral N content of the amendments. After 4 years, the composts had mineralized 3-8% of their initial organic N content, depending on their stability. Composts with slower N release had higher N availability for the crops. CERES could thus be used to aid in selecting the timing of compost application, in relation to its stability, based on both environmental and agronomical criteria.