The Modern Phosphorus Sustainability Movement: A Profiling Experiment

Andrea E. Ulrich and Ewald Schnug
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Andrea E. Ulrich: Institute for Environmental Decisions (IED), Natural and Social Science Interface, ETH Zurich, Universitätsstrasse 22, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
Ewald Schnug: Institute of Crop and Soil Science, Federal Research Center for Cultivated Plants, Julius Kühn-Insitute, Bundesallee 50, 38116 Braunschweig, Germany

Sustainability, 2013, vol. 5, issue 11, 1-23

Abstract: Since the “peak phosphorus” concept emerged in 2007, concerns about the future availability of phosphate rock have funneled into a growing number of actions, often in the form of new and innovative platforms focusing on phosphorus sustainability. This trend seems to continue on different levels and in different formats, which makes the landscape of activities increasingly blurred and complex. This article considers the emerging phase of the modern phosphorus sustainability movement. It provides a first profiling overview of platforms working towards more sustainable production, consumption, and reuse of phosphorus (P) within the frame of securing global food production and environmental quality. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the movement, pertinent literature, the problem sphere itself, and of forms of possible engagement. Major barriers and opportunities inherent in the various approaches are discussed. It is concluded that overarching coordination will be necessary to improve future planning and priority setting for sustainability strategies.

Keywords: peak phosphorus; food security; sustainable development; fertilizers; global science diplomacy; research management (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2013
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (5)

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