On December 5, in observance of World Soil Day, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) CLIMADAPT started series of events under the theme “Be the Solution to Soil Pollution”.

As part of this special day, master classes and case study presentations on healthy soil, lectures on efficient use of soil resources, especially conservation of soil, proper composting and drip irrigation are organized for high schools students both inside and outside of Dushanbe, according to FAO Tajikistan.

Soils have a great potential to filter and buffer contaminants, and degrade negative effects of pollution.  Human activities are the main source of pollutants, such as unsustainable farming practices, industrial activities and mining, untreated urban waste and other non-environmental friendly practices.  As part of the Agenda 2030 for sustainable development, several Sustainable Development Goals (2, 3, 12, and 15) include targets commending direct consideration of soil resources, especially soil pollution and degradation in relation to food security.

“Combatting soil pollution requires us to join forces.  Everyone has invaluable role to play to tackle the soil pollution and only working in partnership we can achieve better soil resources management”, emphasized Oleg Guchgeldiyev, FAO Representative in Tajikistan.

Agricultural specialists, government, civil society, and youth representatives are invited to the events as well, to discuss the importance of soil, and exchange knowledge and experience under the overarching theme “Be the solution to soil pollution”.

The series of events will run until 18 December, when results of drawing contents will be finalized in one of schools of Dousti district in Khatlon province.