Attempts are underway by the higher rankers of the Agriculture Ministry to amend the Sri Lankan standard on organic fertilizer reliable sources revealed to Lankasara.
According to the sources the Sri Lanka Standards Institution is to change the 1704 standard, which states that there should be no microorganisms in imported organic matter. This standard was imposed in this way because of the enormous complex distribution of microorganisms and the inability to make a fully scientific explanation of their existence in each ecosystem.
When inquired about this from Buddhi Marambe, Senior Professor of Crop Science, Peradeniya Faculty of Agriculture, he stated that this standard of fertilizer is not mandatory for any fertilizer producer in the country.
“This certification of standards is a voluntary standard that can only be obtained by domestic manufacturers if required.
But any fertilizer imported from abroad should be subject to Sri Lankan standards. Otherwise, it must conform to the standards of England. This is clearly stated in the Fertilizer Regulation Act No. 68 of 1988. ”
“Any imported fertilizer must comply with these standards. Otherwise, it could affect the environment of Sri Lanka. There is a standard for sterilizing imported solid organic fertilizers to protect Sri Lanka’s ecosystem. ”
“If there is any change in the standards, it can be said that no matter what country the imported fertilizer is imported from, it will have a severe impact on the ecosystems in Sri Lanka. professor Marambe added.
