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A British scientist has been awarded a prestigious innovation prize for developing a groundbreaking method to tackle phosphate pollution and reduce reliance on imported fertilisers. Jane Pearce, co-founder of Rookwood Operations, has created a sponge-like material that removes excess phosphates from polluted waterways and reuses them in agriculture. This invention offers a practical solution to the growing environmental crisis known as ‘phosphogeddon’—the dangerous overuse and waste of phosphorus.

The Global Phosphate Crisis

Phosphorus is essential for life and food production. It is a key ingredient in fertilisers, which help feed the world’s 8 billion people. However, phosphorus waste from agriculture and sewage systems is contaminating rivers and lakes, causing algal blooms that destroy marine life and reduce oxygen levels in water. Many British waterways, including the River Wye, have been severely affected, turning into stagnant, algae-filled zones due to excess phosphates.

At the same time, global phosphate reserves are declining. While large deposits still exist in Morocco, China, and the Western Sahara, US reserves have fallen to just 1% of their former levels, and Britain is entirely dependent on imports. With 50 million tonnes of phosphate fertiliser used globally each year, the wasteful cycle of extraction, pollution, and depletion threatens long-term food security.

A Simple Yet Powerful Innovation

Pearce and her team at Rookwood Operations, based in Somerset, have developed Phosphate Removal Material (PRM), a natural, reusable substance that captures excess phosphate from polluted water and reintroduces it into farmland as a fertiliser.

“PRM works like a sponge, absorbing harmful phosphates from lakes and rivers,” Pearce explained. “Once it’s full, it is moved to agricultural land, where it improves soil quality and provides essential nutrients for crops.” Since PRM is made entirely from natural materials, it enhances soil health while reducing dependence on imported phosphate fertilisers.

The product is about to enter trial phases, starting with a local water company in Somerset, followed by nationwide testing in the coming months.

For her pioneering work, Pearce has been awarded a £75,000 Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award, which recognises female entrepreneurs creating solutions for global challenges.

Fighting ‘Phosphogeddon’ and Protecting the Environment

Scientists warn that unchecked phosphate waste could lead to severe environmental and agricultural consequences. With water pollution rising and phosphate supplies shrinking, solutions like PRM could help close the phosphorus cycle by capturing and reusing this vital resource.

“What we’ve developed is a simple but effective material that could make a major difference in addressing this escalating crisis,” Pearce said. “Our aim is to stabilise phosphate use in the UK and reduce the need for imported fertilisers, which will benefit both farmers and the environment.”

As phosphate reserves dwindle and pollution worsens, sustainable solutions like PRM could be crucial for maintaining global food production while restoring the health of rivers and lakes.