International Fertilizer Association launches groundbreaking report on phosphogypsum and the circular economy

The International Fertilizer Association (IFA) has published From Waste to Inventory – The Business Case, the third installment in its series on phosphogypsum (PG) management and utilization. This landmark publication underscores the global shift toward sustainable practices and positions PG as a cornerstone of the circular economy.

With contributions from 28 leading companies and organizations across 18 countries, the report reflects a global consensus on PG’s potential. Together, the report’s contributors represent over 85% of global PG output, amounting to an estimated 245 million tonnes annually.

The report makes a compelling case for reclassifying PG from waste to inventory, showcasing its feasibility for full utilization in large-scale economies by 2035. By highlighting innovative applications and business models, the publication demonstrates how PG can be transformed into a valuable resource for industries ranging from agriculture to construction materials, packaging and pharmaceuticals.

Julian Hilton, Chairman of Aleff Group and editor of the report, emphasized the transformative potential represented in the report:

"This report is a call to action for industries worldwide to rethink their approach to phosphogypsum. By reclassifying PG as inventory rather than waste, we unlock enormous opportunities for economic growth and environmental stewardship. It is about turning a liability into a global secondary raw material, with a range of potential applications."

Alzbeta Klein, CEO and Director General of IFA, highlighted the broader implications of the work:

"Phosphogypsum represents an untapped resource with immense potential to drive sustainability in agriculture and other sectors. This report demonstrates how industry collaboration can lead to innovative solutions that benefit both the economy and the environment. At IFA, we are committed to advancing initiatives that turn challenges into opportunities for a more sustainable future."

IFA’s From Waste to Inventory – The Business Case is not just a technical document; it is a call to action for governments, industries, and stakeholders worldwide to embrace phosphogypsum as a key material in advancing sustainability goals. As part of the circular economy framework, this initiative supports global efforts to reduce waste generation while enhancing resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.

The report builds on IFA’s commitment to helping feed the world sustainably, following the success of its previous PG reports: Phosphogypsum: Sustainable Management and Use (2016) and Phosphogypsum Leadership Innovation Partnership (2020).

For further information and to read the reports, please visit the IFA website.