SEALNET`s 8th Summit Unites Asian Soil Labs for a Sustainable Future

ICRISAT News, july 2024

ICRISAT's Soil Scientist Dr Pushpajeet Choudhari Chairs Asian Soil Laboratory Network's (SEALNET) 8th Meeting

The 8th Asian Soil Laboratory Network (SEALNET) meeting, held in the Philippines from 15-19 July, brought together distinguished dignitaries, scientists, and SEALNET members from across the globe. Virtual participants from different geographies also attended the event. ICRISAT Scientist Dr Pushpajeet Lokpal Choudhari, Chair of the Asian Soil Laboratory Network, had the honor of delivering the opening address.

SEALNET, the first regional network established within Global Soil Laboratory Network (GLOSOLAN), has set a precedent for other regions by grouping soil laboratories into regional networks. The initiative aims to harmonize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), foster connections among Asian soil laboratories, and advance collective efforts towards sustainable soil health.

Currently, SEALNET connects approximately 150 registered laboratories, a testament to the commitment of its members and the dedicated efforts of the SEALNET Steering Committee over the years.

At the inaugural session held on 15 July 2024, Mr Lionel Henri Valentin Dabbadie, FAO Representative in the Philippines, and Mr Lifeng Li, Director of the FAO Land and Water Division, were the guest speakers. The keynote address was delivered by the Honorable Francisco P Tiu-Laurel Jr., Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Philippines.

After years of virtual meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this in-person gathering marked a significant opportunity to strengthen relationships among laboratories and countries and to define a sustainable work plan for the coming years.

See https://pressroom.icrisat.org/sealnets-8th-summit-unites-asian-soil-labs-for-a-sustainable-future