Project

Phosphorus recovery in Switzerland

Phosphorus is both a scarce and essential resource. The Swiss Ordinance on the Avoidance and the Disposal of Waste (ADWO) mandates the recovery of phosphorus from wastewater beginning in January 2026. Working on behalf of the Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture, we studied the Swiss phosphorus and fertilizer market, as well as products derived from current recycling technologies. Our estimate of the expected costs associated with the various approaches has enabled us to assess the market potential for a domestic circular economy.

Our services

  • Description of the current phosphorus and fertilizer market, including import and production volumes, major consumers, and product use
  • Composition analysis of targetable recycling products and their suitability for various deployment areas
  • Estimate of the expected costs associated with various approaches to closing material and product loops, as well as any additional costs, compared to current disposal practices
  • Assessment of the market potential for a domestic circular economy in the case of phosphorus

Contact persons