Summary
The validity of material flow analyses (MFAs) depends on the available information base, that is, the quality and quantity of available data. MFA data are cross‐disciplinary, can have varying formats and qualities, and originate from heterogeneous sources, such as official statistics, scientific models, or expert estimations. Statistical methods for data evaluation are most often inadequate, because MFA data are typically isolated values rather than extensive data sets. In consideration of the properties of MFA data, a data characterization framework for MFA is presented. It consists of an MFA data terminology, a data characterization matrix, and a procedure for database analysis. The framework facilitates systematic data characterization by cell‐level tagging of data with data attributes. Data attributes represent data characteristics and metainformation regarding statistical properties, meaning, origination, and application of the data. The data characterization framework is illustrated in a case study of a national phosphorus budget. This work furthers understanding of the information basis of material flow systems, promotes the transparent documentation and precise communication of MFA input data, and can be the foundation for better data interpretation and comprehensive data quality evaluation.
Protecting water bodies from eutrophication, ensuring long-term food security and shifting to a circular economy represent compelling objectives to phosphorus management strategies. This study determines how and to which extent the management of phosphorus in Austria can be optimized. A detailed national model, obtained for the year 2013 through Material Flow Analysis, represents the reference situation. Applicability and limitations are discussed for a range of actions aimed at reducing consumption, increasing recycling, and lowering emissions. The potential contribution of each field of action is quantified and compared using three indicators: Import dependency, Consumption of fossil-P fertilizers and Emissions to water bodies. Further, the uncertainty of this assessment is characterized and priorities for the upgrade of data collection are identified. Moreover, all the potential gains discussed in the article are applied to the reference situation to generate an ideal target model. The results show that in Austria a large scope for phosphorus stewardship exists. Strategies based exclusively either on recycling or on the decline of P consumption hold a similar potential to reduce import dependency by 50% each. An enhanced P recycling from meat and bone meal, sewage sludge and compost could replace the current use of fossil-P fertilizers by 70%. The target model, i.e. the maximum that could be achieved taking into account trade-offs between different actions, is characterized by an extremely low import dependency of 0.23kgPcap(-1)y(-1) (2.2kgPcap(-1)y(-1) in 2013), by a 28% decline of emissions to water bodies and by null consumption of fossil-P fertilizers. This case study shows the added value of using Material Flow Analysis as a basis to design sound management strategies. The systemic approach inherent to it allows performing a proper comparative assessment of different actions, identifying priorities, and visualizing a target model.
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