Phosphorus Balance of Sweden

Abstract: Phosphorus (P) is an essential element for all life on our planet. During the past century anthropogenic consumption of P has reached critically unsustainable levels, the mining of finite phosphate rock and the dispersion of this resource could lead to resource scarcity in the future. The need to increase knowledge and understanding for the P system is an essential part of sustainable decision making. In this thesis the P balance of Sweden is characterised and quantified using material flow analysis methodology. Furthermore, the study provides a solid foundation of knowledge and understanding of the current state of P balance in Sweden. Major challenges are highlighted and further improvement potential is established for the Swedish flows of P. The major identified contributors to the Swedish P balance are the consumption of mineral fertilizers, the consumption patterns in society and the waste management. Moreover, there is a need to reduce the emissions of P to the environment in order to preserve natural state. The most effective ways of reducing the emissions are to reduce inputs to the system and improve the system efficiency through technical solutions, political tools and financial incentives. It is important to reduce emissions without shifting of burdens onto others. The anthropogenic activities in Sweden have a significant impact on the environment, this is due to Sweden importing P fertilizer that is added to the system. Nevertheless, there is a large potential for improvement of P resource management, where recycling and reuse of P is highlighted. Furthermore, Sweden has historically proven that political action and financial incentives are effective in reducing emissions.