Bangladesh experts demand urgent shift from toxic fertilizers to save public health

A recent workshop at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) called for urgent changes in farming practices to protect public health. Experts warned that excessive use of chemical fertilizers is contaminating food and causing serious diseases. The event, chaired by Professor Md Abdul Awal, focused on safer alternatives like organic fertilizers and bio-pesticides to reduce health risks. Professor Mohammad Shahjahan Manjil, a plant pathology expert, delivered the keynote address. He highlighted how heavy metals—such as lead, chromium, and cadmium—found in chemical fertilizers enter the human body through crops. These toxins contribute to complex illnesses over time. The workshop stressed the need for stricter controls across the farming supply chain. Participants demanded better management, transparency, and measures to prevent adulteration from production to market. They also pushed for modern techniques, including organic fertilizers, integrated pest management, and pheromone traps to cut chemical reliance. Bangladesh currently uses around 5 million tonnes of chemical fertilizers each year. However, urea and TSP fertilizers often lack proper nitrogen and phosphorus balance, worsening the problem. Discussants urged farmers to shift toward bio-pesticides and reduce chemical inputs to safeguard both food security and health equity. SAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Alimul Islam attended as the chief guest. He joined calls for sustainable farming methods that prioritize safe food production without compromising crop yields. The workshop concluded with a clear message: reducing chemical fertilizers and adopting eco-friendly practices is critical. Experts recommended wider use of organic solutions and stricter quality checks on conventional inputs. These steps aim to lower health risks while maintaining agricultural productivity.