Florida Phosphate: Using Innovation To Support Conservation

Florida’s Phosphate Producers Pursue Ambitious Water Conservation Target

June 22, 2022

Can innovation lead to more effective conservation?

Sunshine, a warm climate, and important wetlands. Sometimes the most important things are the easiest to take for granted.

Indeed, years ago, nearly no one recycled. But today almost everyone does — because people have come to realize that we cannot take our relationship with the natural environment for granted. In that same spirit, phosphate producers have learned to be better stewards of the environment — and we continue to get better every year.

The future of water. Innovation will enable phosphate producers to use less and recycle more water than ever before.

In Florida, phosphate producers recycle 95% of the water they use, significantly minimizing the industry’s environmental footprint.

Leaders in the phosphate industry have worked with regulators to reduce permitted groundwater usage in Florida by 50% over the last 20 years and are implementing innovative techniques to do even better.

Phosphate producers are capturing rainwater in order to conserve groundwater. That means more fresh water for everyone.

Trained engineers are developing innovative methods to improve the efficiency of drainage systems that recover and reuse water during the manufacturing of phosphate products.

The goal of all this innovation: use an additional 20% less water by 2025.

What difference does it make? Reducing, reusing, and recycling water usage in these ways means that more fresh water is available for human consumption and the conservation of wetlands and wildlife habitats.

Bottom line: Water conservation starts with innovation. Florida’s phosphate industry is committed to using the latest technology and innovative practices to conserve more water while supporting a strong economy.