Human impact on the phosphorus Cycle
How we affect the phosphorus cycle
Synthetic fertilizers are a main way humans impact the phosphorus cycle. The phosphate in the fertilizer is not fully utilized by plants, and as a result leftover phosphates remain in the plants’ water supply. This remaining phosphate leaves as water run-off.
Misuse of animal waste fertilizers are another way we negatively impact the phosphorus cycle. If animal wastes or manure are carelessly applied during the winter, it won’t be utilized by plants. Then, during the spring, the ice may thaw and the phosphates may turn into run-off.
Municipal sewage plants also supply phosphates to the water. If not treated, the phosphates in our sewage will not be removed, and will remain in our water supply.
Synthetic fertilizers are a main way humans impact the phosphorus cycle. The phosphate in the fertilizer is not fully utilized by plants, and as a result leftover phosphates remain in the plants’ water supply. This remaining phosphate leaves as water run-off.
Misuse of animal waste fertilizers are another way we negatively impact the phosphorus cycle. If animal wastes or manure are carelessly applied during the winter, it won’t be utilized by plants. Then, during the spring, the ice may thaw and the phosphates may turn into run-off.
Municipal sewage plants also supply phosphates to the water. If not treated, the phosphates in our sewage will not be removed, and will remain in our water supply.
The impacts of our actions
Excessive phosphorus in our water supplies can have negative consequences for humans. It can result in excessive plant growth (including algae). This can in turn clog our water pipes and filters and interfere with human activities (such as swimming and fishing). When this algae dies, it may result in decreased water quality, causing malodorous and poor tasting drinking water.
Excessive phosphorus in our water supplies can have negative consequences for humans. It can result in excessive plant growth (including algae). This can in turn clog our water pipes and filters and interfere with human activities (such as swimming and fishing). When this algae dies, it may result in decreased water quality, causing malodorous and poor tasting drinking water.