The FIC-Fighters project has published a new policy brief, developed by project partner ALDA, highlighting the urgent need to improve the governance and management of phosphogypsum (PG) stacks across Europe.
As part of the project, researchers explored the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) dimensions of PG deposits in six case study locations: Veles (North Macedonia), Barreiro (Portugal), Kutina (Croatia), Prahovo (Serbia), Turnu Măgurele (Romania), and Cartagena (Spain). Through research activities and citizen workshops, local communities shared their experiences and concerns regarding the impacts of these large industrial waste deposits.
The findings show that PG stacks continue to affect nearby communities in multiple ways, including environmental, health, social, and economic impacts. Participants also highlighted several challenges related to how these sites are currently managed, including limited access to information, insufficient citizen participation, and a lack of coordinated long-term solutions.
Based on these findings, the policy brief presents three key recommendations:
- Enhance information sharing and transparency through improved monitoring and communication of environmental impacts.
- Strengthen citizen engagement and inclusive governance by involving local communities in decision-making processes.
- Support research on remediation strategies and alternatives to promote sustainable management and circular economy solutions.
The recommendations are addressed to local, national, and European policymakers, as well as environmental authorities and industry stakeholders. They are particularly relevant in the context of emerging European initiatives such as the Circular Economy Act.
The lessons learned from the six case studies can help guide more sustainable and socially inclusive approaches to phosphogypsum management across Europe and beyond.
Read the full policy brief to learn more about the findings and recommendations: https://fic-fighters.eu/go/policy-brief-1