Phosphorus in the global environment

the long version

Phosphorus is one of the world's vital but relatively scarce resources, which is a limiting factor in plant (and therefore food and fibre) production. This volume brings together data and concepts on the transfers and transformations of phosphorus. Although the phrase "biogeochemical cycle" is commonly used to describe the fate of elements in the environment, it has become apparent that for phosphorus, linear transfers from land to rivers to lakes and seas are more typical. In some regions, these transfers are augmented by the addition of mined phosphates and manures, and surplus phosphates need to be managed with care. Environmental managers need to incorporate an understanding of phosphorus transfers into their decision making. However, the controls on phosphorus transfers through landscapes are complex, and an integrated approach by terrestrial and aquatic scientists is needed to develop such an understanding. The use of waterbodies as sensitive and fragile indicators of phosphorus losses from surrounding watersheds is an important step towards a comprehensive scientific approach. Processes which limit plant production are often well understood but socio-economic constraints limit remedial measures and must form part of a comprehensive approach to phosphorus management.