Stewardship to tackle global phosphorus inefficiency : The case of Europe

The inefficient use of phosphorus (P) in the food chain is a threat to the global aquatic environment and the health and well-being of citizens, and it is depleting an essential finite natural resource critical for future food security and ecosystem function. We outline a strategic framework of 5R stewardship (Re-align P inputs, Reduce P losses, Recycle P in bioresources, Recover P in wastes, and Redefine P in food systems) to help identify and deliver a range of integrated, cost-effective, and feasible technological innovations to improve P use efficiency in society and reduce Europe’s dependence on P imports. Their combined adoption facilitated by interactive policies, co-operation between upstream and downstream stakeholders (researchers, investors, producers, distributors, and consumers), and more harmonized approaches to P accounting would maximize the resource and environmental benefits and help deliver a more competitive, circular, and sustainable European economy. The case of Europe provides a blueprint for global P stewardship.

Bibliographic Details

Main Authors:	Withers, P.J.A., van Dijk, K.C., Neset, T.S.S., Nesme, Thomas, Oenema, Oene, Rubæk, G.H., Schoumans, O.F., Smit, Bert, Pellerin, Sylvain
Format:	Article/Letter to editor biblioteca
Language:	English
Subjects:	Europe, Eutrophication, Human health, Inefficiency, Phosphorus, Resources, Sustainability,
Online Access:	https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/stewardship-to-tackle-global-phosphorus-inefficiency-the-case-of-
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