Fertilizer Use in North & South America.

Fertilizer Use in North and South America

North and South America are among the world’s leading users of fertilizers. Global consumption was estimated at 165 million metric tons (Mt) of fertilizer nutrients in 2008. East Asia used the largest amount of N+ P2O5 + K2O, accounting for 37% of the world’s consumption. South Asia was second with 18% of consumption followed by North America at 14% and Latin America (including the Caribbean) at 10%. Last year global demand for fertilizer escalated and fertilizer prices increased following the price of cereal crops. Then with the global recession and financial crisis fertilizer demand fell, however the fundamentals driving the world’s need for fertilizer have not changed. This paper will outline the role of North and South America in future fertilizer demand and supply and discuss the 4R nutrient stewardship approach being employed to help ensure fertilizer nutrients are being used efficiently and effectively.