Challenges and Strategies for the Sustainable Environmental Management of Phosphogypsum

Phosphogypsum, a byproduct of phosphate fertilizer production, poses significant environmental challenges due to its large volume, hazardous composition, and radioactivity. Conventional disposal methods, such as stockpiling and landfilling, contribute to soil and water contamination and present risks to human health. This article explores the potential of integrating phosphogypsum into a circular economy framework, focusing on reducing environmental impacts and extracting value from this industrial waste. A detailed assessment of phosphogypsum’s chemical composition, including trace metals and radionuclides, is essential for effective management. This review paper examines safe handling, storage, and disposal strategies to minimize environmental risks. Additionally, innovative reuse applications are investigated, such as incorporating phosphogypsum into construction materials like cement, plasterboard, and concrete and its use in agriculture as a soil amendment or for land reclamation. The recovery of critical elements, particularly rare earth elements (REEs), highlights its potential to reduce waste and contribute to meeting the growing demand for strategic resources. Despite its promise, challenges remain, including chemical variability and the presence of radioactive components. This article identifies the technological and regulatory steps required to enable safe, large-scale reuse of phosphogypsum, emphasizing its role in advancing sustainable resource management within a circular economy.