What do we see?
The graph below illustrates the evolution of phosphorus-based fertiliser use since 2011. In 2020, the Flemish agricultural sector used 42.61 kilotonnes, representing a 7.6% decrease compared to 2011. Animal fertilisers constitute the largest category with a share of 94.8%. A decline in their use occurred between 2011 and 2017, followed by a slight increase. Use of synthetic fertilisers represents a share of 3.0%; around 2015 and 2016 it was 2.3%. The share from organic fertilisers is 2.3% and has increased by a fifth over the years.
What’s the aim?
Fertilisers are needed in food production. In Flanders, we see that the large quantities required lead to negative environmental impacts. Minimising their use can be achieved through various strategies, such as training farmers and applying new agricultural technologies. From a materials perspective, we aim to minimise the use of synthetic fertilisers, given the additional materials required and impacts involved in their production. Our preference is therefore for animal and organic fertilisers, as they enable us to close the food cycle.
What does this indicator measure?
This indicator provides insight into the use of phosphorus-based fertilisers within the Flemish agricultural sector, distinguishing between animal, synthetic and organic fertilisers. The data are expressed in kilotonnes of P2O5 and are taken from the annual Fertiliser Report prepared by the Flemish Land Agency (VLM).
