GSMB to prepare a geochemical map of all parts of Sri Lanka

Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera has instructed the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to initiate a program to prepare geochemical maps in all parts of Sri Lanka.

Accordingly, this geochemical mapping will be started systematically covering all parts of the island from next year.

This program is being implemented with the objective of making effective use of land resources in the establishment of agriculture as well as other industrial production factories.

GSMB had previously implemented this program in only a few areas, but it had not been implemented since. However, the Minister decided to resume this program in order to identify the chemical conditions present in the soil layers of the respective areas in support of the organic farming program currently being initiated by the Government in the field of agriculture.

Systematic geochemical mapping is the best way to document changes in the levels of chemical elements in the earth’s crust or below, such as rocks, soils, rivers and river sediments, streams, groundwater, and vegetation.

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

The use of chemical fertilisers containing high levels of nitrogen, which has been used in agriculture for decades, is also ineffective based on accurate geochemical 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. However, relentless use of chemicals without proper study can cause soil pollution as well as upset the ecological balance.

Amaraweera said that this had led to serious health problems due to the increase in non-communicable diseases such as kidney failure and increased levels of heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic and lead in foods.

Accordingly, the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau has already made the necessary arrangements to commence this program, according to its Chairman Anura Walpola.