Phosphorus and nitrogen flows and the EU food system

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Prod-ID: INF-73-en

Published 17 Oct 2017 Last modified 17 Oct 2017

Topics: Sustainability transitions ,

How efficiently nutrients are used is a critical issue for a sustainable food system and the circular economy. Analysis of the N and P flows through the agricultural food system show major losses (80% for N and 70% for P). Of the total input in the form of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilisers, only 20-30% is actually embedded in the food that reaches consumers plates.

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For references, please go to https://www.eea.europa.eu/media/infographics/phosphorus-and-nitrogen-flows-and-1 or scan the QR code.

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