October 15, 2010 – Recent studies indicate that “peak metal” and “peak phosphate” are not imminent threats.
“’We are unlikely to run out of metal as long as we continue to invest in the science needed to identify where new mineral deposits can be found,’ says Andrew Bloodworth of the British Geological Survey. ‘We must use what we already have more efficiently, but unfounded concerns deflect attention from more pressing issues regarding our use of the earth’s resources.’
…Since phosphate rock is the primary source for phosphorus, an element critical to plant growth, a shortage of phosphate fertilisers would be disastrous for agriculture.
But a study by IFDC, an international organisation concerned with food security, finds no indication that phosphate production will peak even in the next 100 years.
The IFDC says that assuming current rates of use, world phosphate rock reserves and resources should be available for the foreseeable future.”
