Abstract <p>Due to the challenges of phosphorus pollution and scarcity, managing phosphorus metabolism is critical for urban development. Each city, shaped by its unique socio-economic context, exhibits distinct phosphorus metabolism, with Macao, as a tourism city centered around consumption, serving as an illustrative case for densely populated, consumption-oriented urban cores, and offering transferable insights for P management under similar boundary conditions. Using Macao as a case, this study dynamically simulated urban phosphorus metabolism to analyze its underlying mechanisms, environmental implications and driving factors from 2000 to 2023. A dynamic cross-sectoral and multi-media phosphorus metabolism (DSMPM) model was developed to identify key sectors and processes through element flow analysis. The results show a general increase in phosphorus metabolism amount and environmental impacts from 2000 to 2023. The consumption sector played a dominant role in phosphorus metabolism in Macao. However, inefficient waste recycling and sewage treatment hinder circular metabolism of phosphorus, exacerbating environmental burdens. Population growth was identified as the primary driver of phosphorus metabolism in Macao, rather than economic activities. It is revealed that there is an overly tight coupling rate of nitrogen and phosphorus in Macao. Ecological network analysis indicated that Macao’s phosphorus metabolism remains predominantly linear, with food consumption being the largest contributor to environmental impacts. This study underscores the critical need for phosphorus control and cross-sectoral collaboration. Future strategies should focus on enhancing organic waste recycling, improving sewage treatment efficiency, and adopting integrated approaches to reduce phosphorus pollution and promote sustainable resource use.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>