Rory Waterman: The Phosphorus Problem

Locals in Burlington, Vermont see firsthand some of the downstream problems associated with phosphorus utilization and management. However, phosphate-containing ore reserves are limited by many estimates, indicating new upstream problems as well.

In this talk, Gund Affiliate Rory Waterman looks at some of these broader issues in efficient phosphorus use as well as phosphorus utilization and remediation. Atoms, like phosphorus, are small but this is a big picture; there will be just enough chemistry to set the stage but a lot of bigger issues to consider.

Rory Waterman is a long-time molecule maker, and as an inorganic chemist, he is fortunate to have the entirety of the periodic table is his workspace. He is a Professor in UVM's Chemistry department and Associate Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences and has spent the entirety of his 13-year independent career at UVM and has earned some recognition, most recently being named a Fellow of the American Chemical Society.