In Zurich last week, some 200 experts discussed the future of the essential nutrient phosphorus. Without phosphorus, no cell, plant, or animal can function. But all over the world a large quantity of phosphorus is lost due to inefficient use and because refuse and wastewater are not recycled. The element has become an unwanted fertiliser in rivers and lakes, in many places to such an extent that it has become a threat to species and ecosystems. In addition, commercial supplies of phosphorus often contain cadmium, which contaminates the soil.

The recycling business and agriculture have to work together more closely

The workshop organized by ETH Zurich, EPF Lausanne and the aquatic research institute Eawag showed that the possibilities of recycling phosphorus from wastewater, liquid manure and refuse have to be better coordinated with the needs of agriculture. Switzerland, which at present imports most of the phosphorus it needs, has what is necessary to become a trailblazer in this field: phosphorus recycling is already legally required, and researchers have demonstrated the practical suitability of various processes. In order to hold to the Swiss deadline set for 2026, interdisciplinary cooperation, above all between recycling and agricultural experts, must be intensified. Recycling has to yield a phosphorus product that is optimally available for crop plants. In addition, business models must be developed that make the cycle worthwhile.

Permanent optimisation is necessary

At the Zurich conference, the first topic of discussion was where the conventional management of phosphorus encounters its limitations. In the USA, for example, ploughing of the earth has been largely given up, which certainly reduces erosion, but in some places, this has led to an accumulation of phosphorus in the topsoil. From there it can easily be washed away into the nearest body of water when it rains, where it leads to harmful eutrophication. The effectiveness of all the measures adopted and processes carried out have thus to be constantly revisited, says Eawag researcher Christian Stamm. And adjustments need to be made where necessary, so that the solving of one problem does not lead to the creation of the next.