Managing phosphorus in the UK water industry to increase national resource security

Cooper, James (2015). Managing phosphorus in the UK water industry to increase national resource security. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Phosphorus is an essential, irreplaceable component of the food production system. Most of the phosphorus applied in agriculture comes from phosphate rock, a finite, non-renewable resource. Therefore, there are growing concerns about global phosphorus scarcity and the sustainability of modern agriculture.

The aim of this research was to determine if the UK water industry will be required to increase the amount of phosphorus that is recycled from wastewater.

This research involved conducting an extensive literature review and gathering data from secondary sources, which was then analysed to address the guiding research questions.

This analysis suggests that phosphorus recycling could be increased, but changes to existing legislation and infrastructure will be required. The substance flow analysis revealed that the water industry is a key stakeholder in UK phosphorus management, and the intensifying geopolitical risk to security of supply suggests that increased phosphorus recycling will be required in the near future. Finally, a Phosphorus Recycling Obligation scheme was developed as a means of optimising investments and achieving recycling targets.

It is concluded that the UK water industry will be required to increase the amount of phosphorus that is recycled from wastewater in the near future in order to address national resource security.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):