British innovator Jane Pearce receives prestigious award for groundbreaking solution to phosphate crisis, tackling water pollution and preserving natural resources.
Phosphate, a key component of fertilisers, is choking waterways worldwide. Algal blooms caused by phosphates are killing fish stocks and marine life on a massive scale.
Phosphates play a crucial role in various biological processes, including DNA and RNA synthesis, cell membrane structure, and energy transfer.
They are essential for the proper functioning of cells, tissues, and organs.
In the human body, phosphates are found in every cell, with 85% being present in bones and teeth.
Phosphates also help regulate acid-base balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
Deficiencies in phosphate can lead to various health issues, including osteoporosis, fatigue, and weakness.
The problem is being tackled by Rookwood Operations, a company based in Wells, Somerset. They have developed a product that enables phosphates to be extracted from polluted areas and reused on farmland.
Phosphate Removal Material (PRM): A Game-Changer
At the heart of this innovation is PRM, a substance that absorbs phosphates like a sponge. Developed by Jane Pearce, co-founder of Rookwood Operations, PRM can be left in an open container until it has absorbed as much phosphate as possible.
The extracted phosphates are then transferred to farmland, where they can be used as fertiliser. PRM is made entirely of natural materials and can enhance the quality of soil on its own.
A Growing Crisis: Phosphogeddon
Phosphate reserves are drying up worldwide, with only a few countries having significant amounts. Britain relies heavily on imports, which has led to environmental problems such as algal blooms that consume oxygen and block sunlight from underwater plants.
Phosphogeddon refers to the potential environmental disaster caused by phosphate mining.
Phosphate is a key ingredient in fertilizers, but its extraction has devastating effects on ecosystems.
In 2013, a study estimated that 70% of global freshwater pollution was due to phosphate mining.
The process involves releasing toxic chemicals into waterways, harming aquatic life and contaminating soil.
If left unchecked, 'Phosphogeddon' could lead to widespread ecosystem collapse.
The misuse of phosphates is now threatening to unleash environmental mayhem. It’s estimated that about 50m tonnes of phosphate fertiliser are sold around the world every year, playing a key role in feeding the planet’s 8 billion inhabitants.
A Solution to Phosphogeddon
Jane Pearce and her team at Rookwood Operations hope their invention will stabilise phosphate use in the UK and reduce the need for imports. This can only help the environment by reducing pollution and preserving natural resources.
PRM is set to undergo trials with a local water company in Somerset, followed by tests with a national company. With its potential to make a wide impact on environmental problems, PRM could be a game-changer in the fight against phosphogeddon.
