Phosphorus: Too big to fail

Abstract

Phosphorus has a paramount importance in our life. Unfortunately, phosphorus deposits are increasingly becoming depleted, the element being discarded once it is used. Therefore, the need arises for a form of phosphorus stewardship. First steps have been taken towards this goal. This essay aims to serve as an introduction to, and overview of, the issue. Phosphorus is essential to life on earth and has become indispensable through its diverse applications. However, as phosphorus reserves are not endless, we need to take measures to control their depletion. This essay presents an overview of what has been, and, more importantly, still needs to be, done. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.