Phosphorus (P) is an essential macronutrient in agriculture; however, lack of reporting makes its supply chain a black box. By using literature synthesis on the P challenge, we identify four areas where the reporting process is problematic: P reserves and resources; P losses along the supply chain; P externalities; and access to data. We find that in these areas, the reporting system is inconsistent, inaccurate, incomplete, fragmented and non-transparent. We use systems analysis to discuss implications of reporting on the sustainability of the P supply chain. We find that reporting is essential for the achievement of global P governance and the human right to adequate food. It can also inform decision makers and other impacted stakeholders on policies on agriculture, food security, pollution and international conflict. An improved P reporting process also allows a better evaluation of global sustainability commitments such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
CITATION STYLE
Nedelciu, C. E., Ragnarsdóttir, K. V., Stjernquist, I., & Schellens, M. K. (2020). Opening access to the black box: The need for reporting on the global phosphorus supply chain. Ambio, 49(4), 881–891. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-019-01240-8
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