Key fertiliser shortages are imminent

Life sciences conferences will be buzzing with the news that chemists are saying phosphorus shortages are in the pipeline this century.

Major scientists in the US have warned that production of phosphorus, which is one of the main fertilisers used for food production, will peak and begin to decline later this century, leading to problems for fertilisation as the population expands.

A report by five major scientific bodies, entitled ‘A Sustainable Global Society’, suggests that the decline could lead to rocketing prices and food shortages.

The report also raises concerns over the supplies of other resources, such as lithium, which is used in the production of many modern gadgets including hybrid cars, computers and military weapons.

Bloomberg Business Week reported this week that some domestic fertilisers are now being produced without phosphorus, suggesting that it is possible to artificially recreate the effect of the natural mineral.

Marcus Evans presents life sciences conferences, created by experienced professionals and with information presented by industry experts.