The interaction of herbicides in the nitrogen cycle and their consequences on soil health and agricultural production are essential topics in agronomic research. In this systematic review article, we have synthesized recent studies on this subject. The results revealed that the indiscriminate use of herbicides can have negative effects on vital processes in the nitrogen cycle, such as reduced enzymatic activity and microbial respiration. Moreover, herbicides alter the soil microbial composition, affecting nitrogen cycling-related activities. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation is also impaired, resulting in a reduction in the population of nitrogen-fixing bacteria and a decrease in the availability of this nutrient in the soil. These effects compromise soil fertility and the release of nitrogen to plants. Therefore, sustainable agricultural practices must be adopted, considering nitrogen cycling efficiency and the preservation of soil and natural resources. This understanding is crucial for guiding appropriate management strategies aimed at minimizing the negative effects of herbicides on the nitrogen cycle and ensuring soil health and agricultural productivity.

Glyphosate, a broad‐spectrum herbicide targeting 5‐enolpyruvylshikimate‐3‐phosphate synthase, was first commercialized in 1974. Its use increased significantly following the introduction of glyphosate‐resistant (GR) crops in 1996 and the expiration of its patent in 2000, making it the most used herbicide worldwide. Intensive reliance on glyphosate has selected for GR weed populations, with the first documented case reported also in 1996. Glyphosate resistance now has evolved in 62 weed species across 31 countries, often involving multiple other herbicide modes of action and thereby complicating chemical control. The highest incidence has occurred in regions with extensive GR crop cultivation, particularly the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, where glyphosate has been used for years as the sole or major herbicide. Apparent disparities among countries largely reflect differences in the timing and reporting of first unique resistance cases, rather than actual differences in the overall prevalence of GR weeds. GR weeds possess the greatest diversity of resistance mechanisms described for any herbicide, encompassing both target‐site and non‐target‐site resistance mechanisms, frequently in combination. In many cases, resistance traits that provide low resistance levels have combined over time to provide more robust resistance (creeping resistance). Evolution and spread of glyphosate resistance are influenced by frequency of use, herbicide dose, phenological stage, pollination biology, gene flow, and dissemination of GR seeds or propagules via contaminated seed/grain lots and machinery. Glyphosate resistance and controversies regarding environmental and health issues have so far not resulted in marked reductions in glyphosate use nor in the introduction of a herbicide or other technology that is as effective and economical as glyphosate in managing weeds. This review synthesizes current knowledge of glyphosate resistance and its mechanisms, highlighting existing gaps, and discusses potential scenarios for the future of glyphosate and GR crops. © 2026 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.