In the heart of Accra, Ghana, a pivotal gathering is set to take place, one that could reshape the future of phosphorus management in Africa and beyond. The 8th Sustainable Phosphorus Summit (SPS8), organized by an African Local Organising Committee and led by Dr. M.G. Manzeke-Kangara from Rothamsted Research in the United Kingdom, aims to establish an African Sustainable Phosphorus Network. This network could become a cornerstone for sustainable phosphorus use, with significant implications for the agricultural and energy sectors.
Phosphorus, a finite resource, is crucial for food production, animal feed, and increasingly, for the production of lithium batteries for electric cars. However, its use is not without consequences. Inefficient management can lead to pollution of aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity loss, and human health risks. “Global collaborative action for sustainable management of phosphorus is vital to ensure food production and the protection of water quality,” says Dr. Manzeke-Kangara, the lead author of a recent article published in *Soil Advances* (which translates to “Advances in Soil Science”).
Africa’s use of phosphorus fertilizers is currently sub-optimal, with a reported decline in use by about 233% by the turn of the 21st century. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The SPS8 summit aims to set the agenda for sustainable phosphorus management in Africa, placing African contexts into the global discussion. “Sustainable phosphorus management in Africa is feasible in the medium to long-term,” Dr. Manzeke-Kangara asserts, “with a focus on ensuring adequate phosphorus fertiliser availability, access and use, while minimising the environmental impacts from losses.”
The establishment of an African Sustainable Phosphorus Network could foster collaboration, networking, and knowledge co-creation. This could lead to innovative solutions that balance the competing demands of a growing population and the need for sustainable phosphorus use. For the energy sector, this is particularly relevant as phosphorus is increasingly used in the production of lithium batteries for electric cars. Sustainable management could ensure a steady supply of this finite resource, supporting the transition to renewable energy.
The SPS8 summit is not just about addressing current challenges; it’s about shaping future developments. By bringing together academics, agriculturalists, environmentalists, policymakers, and industry leaders, the summit could pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in phosphorus management. As Dr. Manzeke-Kangara puts it, “The hosting of the 8th SPS in Accra, Ghana, will present an opportunity to set the agenda for sustainable phosphorus management in Africa.”
In the coming years, the decisions and collaborations forged at this summit could echo through the halls of power and innovation, driving a sustainable phosphorus network that benefits not only Africa but the world. The stage is set, and the actors are ready. The question is, what will the future of phosphorus management look like? The answer may well be shaped in Accra.