A British scientist has been recognized for an innovative solution to tackle the growing phosphate crisis, which is polluting waterways and depleting global reserves. Jane Pearce, co-founder of Rookwood Operations, has developed a sponge-like material that removes harmful phosphates from rivers and lakes and reuses them as fertiliser for crops. Her work has earned her the £75,000 Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award for its potential to address environmental damage and food security concerns.
The Phosphate Crisis: Pollution and Depletion
Phosphorus is a key ingredient in fertilisers, essential for food production worldwide. However, excessive use of phosphate-based fertilisers and sewage discharge has led to dangerous runoff into rivers and lakes, causing algal blooms that choke marine life and disrupt ecosystems. The River Wye in the UK is one of many waterways that have suffered severe pollution, turning into a toxic green soup due to phosphate overload.
At the same time, global phosphate reserves are running low. While Morocco, China, and the Western Sahara still hold significant deposits, US reserves have dwindled to just 1% of their previous levels, and Britain is completely reliant on imports. With the world using 50 million tonnes of phosphate fertiliser annually, this wasteful cycle threatens long-term food security and environmental stability.
A Simple but Effective Innovation
Pearce and her team at Rookwood Operations, based in Somerset, have created Phosphate Removal Material (PRM), a natural, reusable substance that extracts phosphates from polluted water and reintroduces them into farmland as a sustainable fertiliser.
“Our product works like a sponge, absorbing excess phosphates from rivers and lakes,” Pearce explained. “Once it reaches full capacity, it is transferred to farmland, where it improves soil health and provides essential nutrients for crops.” Since PRM is made entirely from natural materials, it is environmentally safe and helps reduce dependence on imported fertilisers.
The material is about to enter trial phases, first with a local water company in Somerset, followed by nationwide testing.
Tackling ‘Phosphogeddon’ and Ensuring Sustainability
Scientists warn that if phosphate waste is not controlled, it could lead to severe environmental damage and agricultural disruption. With rising pollution levels and declining phosphate supplies, solutions like PRM could help close the phosphorus loop by capturing and recycling this valuable resource.
“What we’ve developed is a simple yet powerful tool to tackle a growing crisis,” Pearce said. “Our goal is to stabilise phosphate use in the UK and reduce reliance on imported fertilisers, benefiting both farmers and the environment.”
As phosphate reserves decline and pollution worsens, sustainable innovations like PRM could play a key role in preserving global food production while restoring the health of waterways.
