Al-Barsh: Adherence to Legal and Health Standards is Essential for Reusing Treated Sludge in Agriculture
Dr. Munir Al-Barsh, head of the Water and Environment Quality Authority, emphasized during a scientific day in Gaza the necessity of adhering to legal and health standards for reusing treated sludge in agriculture, stressing the protection of the environment and human health. The event was attended by officials and researchers, and eight research papers were presented on international experiences and the local reality.
Dr. Munir Al-Barsh, head of the Water and Environment Quality Authority, emphasized during the opening of a scientific day titled "Reuse of Treated Sludge in Agriculture: International Experiences and Prospects for Its Use as a Sustainable Alternative to Fertilizers in the Gaza Strip" the importance of adhering to legal and health standards to ensure the protection of the environment, human health, and the safety of agricultural production. The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Dr. Muhammad Salem Al-Shaer, Vice President of the Islamic University for Academic Affairs Prof. Dr. Bassam Al-Saqqa, Head of the Union of Municipalities of the Gaza Strip Dr. Yahya Al-Sarraj, along with researchers and academics. Al-Barsh stressed the need to apply legal standards in all stages of sludge production, treatment, transport, storage, and agricultural use, calling for concerted efforts among government institutions, academia, and municipalities to benefit from international experiences. The scientific day included two sessions and eight research papers, concluding with recommendations calling for an integrated national framework for managing treated sludge, enhancing oversight and periodic inspections, and supporting scientific research to achieve safe and sustainable use.