Cultural Beliefs, Values, and the Biogeochemical Cycling of P: P is for People

This chapter explores how cultural values, beliefs, and traditions affect the fluxes of phosphorus in the biosphere. It examines three human-culture interactions with phosphorus biogeochemistry: (a) genetically engineered organisms, (b) human diet, and (c) management of human excreta. It looks into how individual and societal perspectives on genetic engineering can reflect into policies that may influence the phosphorus use efficiencies of crops. It evaluates how religious beliefs concerning diet help determine overall fertilizer demand in crop production. It also assesses the implications of cultural taboos on phosphorus sustainability.