News in Brief:
– PhosAgro, Russia’s fertiliser producer, contributes an extra $3 million to FAO, aiding farmers globally in adopting soil-improving practices.
– The investment supports initiatives like distributing Soil Doctors Testing Kits, training 5,000 farmers, and promoting eco-friendly soil management, benefiting local farmers worldwide.
Russia’s PhosAgro, a prominent phosphate-based fertiliser producer, has invested an additional $3 million into the efforts of the Global Soil Partnership (GSP), facilitated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
This generous contribution aims to aid thousands of local farmers across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and the Near East in adopting soil-improving management practices.
Tackling soil pollution and emissions
The FAO plans to deploy 1,200 Soil Doctors Testing Kits to certified professionals and trainers, facilitating the training of approximately 5,000 farmers by 2026. This initiative seeks to bolster sustainable soil management practices crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and mitigating environmental impact.
Notably, PhosAgro’s funding will support the novel initiative of recarbonisation of agricultural soils (RECSOIL), enabling farmers to enhance productivity while curbing greenhouse gas emissions. This dual-purpose approach aligns with the International Code of Conduct for the Sustainable Use of Management of Fertilizers, promoting efficiency and environmental responsibility.
International collaboration for sustainable agriculture
The recent agreement, inked by FAO Deputy Director-General Maria Helena Semedo and PhosAgro’s Deputy Chairman Alexander Sharabaika, underscores the significance of public-private partnerships in addressing global agricultural challenges. Semedo lauded PhosAgro’s commitment, emphasising its tangible contributions to sustainable soil management.
For local farmers, this investment translates into tangible support and access to cutting-edge resources for soil management. PhosAgro’s ongoing partnership with FAO since 2018 has already yielded substantial benefits, reaching over 11,500 farmers and enhancing the capabilities of numerous soil laboratories worldwide.
PhosAgro’s Chairman of the Board, Viktor Cherepov, reiterated the company’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and food security. By extending its collaboration with the international food organisation and expanding global initiatives, PhosAgro aims to set a benchmark for best practices in soil protection while ensuring the fertility and safety of agricultural lands.
With this latest investment, PhosAgro’s total contribution to sustainable soil management surpasses $5.4 million. The company’s previous support has facilitated training for thousands of experts and enhanced laboratory capacities worldwide, showcasing a steadfast commitment to global agricultural sustainability.
