Think your plants are getting all the nutrients from fertilizers? Think again! A groundbreaking study by botanists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals that only 12.6% of inorganic phosphorus fertilizers worldwide are actually absorbed by crops. The rest? It’s chilling in the soil like a forgotten Spotify playlist —and experts say this could reshape how we farm.
The research team analyzed 987 datasets from 274 studies spanning nearly 50 years (1972–2021), creating a first-of-its-kind global database. Their findings? While farmers pour tens of millions of tonnes of these fertilizers annually, most become 'soil hoarders' instead of plant boosters .
Why does this matter? Over-accumulation in soil can lead to environmental issues like water pollution, while leaving farmers paying for unrealized benefits. The study highlights the need for smarter, sustainable alternatives—think precision agriculture or organic solutions—to bridge the gap between food security and eco-responsibility.
Got thoughts on the future of farming? Drop a comment and tag a friend who’s into #EcoScience!
NewspaperAmigo – Your Global News Buddy 
A groundbreaking study by botanists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences reveals that only 12.6% of inorganic phosphorus fertilizers worldwide are actually absorbed by crops. The rest? It’s chilling in the soil like a forgotten Spotify playlist 
—and experts say this could reshape how we farm.
.
The study highlights the need for smarter, sustainable alternatives—think precision agriculture or organic solutions—to bridge the gap between food security and eco-responsibility.
and tag a friend who’s into #EcoScience!
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