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, Lionel Henri Valentin Dabbadie, FAO Representative in the Philippines, and 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.
“By joining this initiative, members will contribute to collective goals and benefit from shared resources, expertise, and collaborative opportunities. Together, we can generate quality data to amplify our impact and drive meaningful change in soil health management,” said Dr Pushpajeet Choudhari.
Dr Stanford Blade, ICRISAT’s Deputy Director General-Research, commended SEALNET’s extensive efforts and emphasized the importance of soil health monitoring in the context of ‘One Health’.
“Quality soil data and integrity are key to sustainable soil management and achieving food self-sufficiency. Healthy soil leads to a healthy life, as 95% of our food comes from land. It all begins with soil and water, the sources of life,” said Dr Blade.
