Union Minister for Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation U Khin Maung Yi delivered the opening speech at the MLC-Toxic Project’s Final Completion Workshop, held at the KMA Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.
The MLC-Toxic Project, which ran from April 2021 to September 2023, aimed to study toxic and non-degradable organic pollutants (POPs) originating from herbicides in the Mekong River Basin. Its primary goal was to establish safety standards for pesticide use in agriculture, ensuring compliance with regulations.
The Union minister highlighted the project’s significance in addressing issues like illegal smuggling of long-lasting organic chemicals, which harm the environment, and the trade of counterfeit pesticides from other countries. He emphasized the importance of conducting research to identify safe and effective methods for pesticide use, reducing health and environmental risks.
Furthermore, the Union minister stressed the importance of conserving the Mekong River and watershed areas of its tributaries and ongoing water quality analysis, not only for Myanmar but for all Mekong region countries. He encouraged the researchers to continue with knowledge sharing and cooperation among these nations, even as the project period concluded. The workshop also featured an inspection of posters showcasing four projects under the Mekong-Lancang Special Fund Programme, with the Union minister offering guidance on key points. — MNA/TS
