Through the lens of phosphorus: The legacy of Andrew Sharpley

Abstract

The pursuit of sustainable phosphorus (P) management represents a long-standing challenge in agricultural arenas, with far-reaching implications for the environment and societal development. Few scholars are as synonymous with P science as Andrew Sharpley. Renowned over his 44-year professional career for providing foundational insights into the fate and management of agricultural P, Sharpley also became the central figure in organizing responses to concerns over the contribution of non-point source P pollution to eutrophication. As a global authority, Sharpley led teams that crafted scientific consensus for use by managers and policymakers in the face of complexity and uncertainty. His leadership offers lessons to those continuing in his footsteps and a model for all who desire to achieve scientific impact. This special collection of papers celebrates the perspectives, contributions, and legacy of Andrew Sharpley.