Journal
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Volume 48, Issue 5, Pages 1127-1132Publisher
AMER SOC AGRONOMY
DOI: 10.2134/jeq2019.07.0266
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Funding
- J.R. Simplot Company
- The Mosaic Co.
- The Fertilizer Institute
- Fertilizer Canada
- OCP
- Nutrien
- Tyson Foods, Inc.
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After its discovery in 1669, phosphorus (P) was named Phosphorus mirabilis (the miraculous bearer of light), arising from the chemoluminescence when white P is exposed to the atmosphere. The metaphoric association between P and light resonates through history: from the discovery of P at the start of the Enlightenment period to the vital role of P in photosynthetic capture of light in crop and food production through to new technologies, which seek to capitalize on the interactions between novel ultrathin P allotropes and light, including photocatalysis, solar energy production, and storage. In this introduction to the Journal of Environmental Quality special section Celebrating the 350th Anniversary of Discovering Phosphorus-For Better or Worse, which brings together 22 paper contributions, we shine a spotlight on the historical and emerging challenges and opportunities in research and understanding of the agricultural, environmental, and societal significance of this vital element. We highlight the role of P in water quality impairment and the variable successes of P mitigation measures. We reflect on the need to improve P use efficiency and on the kaleidoscope of challenges facing efficient use of P. We discuss the requirement to focus on place-based solutions for developing effective and lasting P management. Finally, we consider how cross-disciplinary collaborations in P stewardship offer a guiding light for the future, and we explore the glimmers of hope for reconnecting our broken P cycle and the bright new horizons needed to ensure future food, water, and bioresource security for growing global populations.
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