GSMB to launch Geo-chemical mapping covering entire nation

The Environment Minister, instructed the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to implement a programme to prepare a systematic Geo-chemical mapping programme to cover all parts of the island.

The Minister, Mahinda Amaraweera said this programme should be implemented with the objective of making effective use of land resources in the establishment of agriculture as well as other industries.

"The GSMB had previously implemented this programme in only a few areas. However, the programme was not carried out properly thereafter, "he said.

Therefore, the minister said that this programme should restart in order to identify the chemical conditions present in the soil layers of the respective areas in support of the organic farming which is currently initiated by the government in the field of agriculture.

Systematic Geo-chemical mapping is the best way to document changes in the levels of chemical element in the earth's crust or below, such as rocks, soils, rivers, and stream sediments, streams, groundwater, and vegetation.

Geo-chemical mapping can also be used to study the Geo-chemical features of the soil, mineral exploration, environmental monitoring, agricultural research, and the study of geological hazards that may have an impact on health.

The use of highly nitrogenous chemical fertilizers, which have been used in agriculture for several decades now, is also ineffective based on information obtained from accurate geo-chemical tests. Also, in some areas, the soil has high levels of chemical nutrients required for agricultural cultivation, and in some areas, they need to be applied externally. But relentless use of chemicals without proper study could cause soil pollution as well as upset the ecological balance. (Chaturanga Samarawickarama)