Tunis, Tunisia - Tunisian researcher Afef Ladhari has been awarded a research grant for her project on developing environmentally friendly nanobioherbicides for weed control. This grant is part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)'s Green Chemistry for Life programme, in collaboration with PhosAgro Group and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). The award ceremony was held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, during the International Symposium "Science for Sustainable Development: Challenges for Central Asia." The event took place at the local campus of the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia.
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, the international scientific jury selected seven winners whose research focuses on developing breakthrough technologies in areas such as environmental stewardship, public health, food security, improved energy efficiency, and natural resource management.
Lidia Brito, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, highlighted the impact of the nine-year partnership with PhosAgro and IUPAC in supporting green chemistry research. Since its inception, the programme has received over 900 applications and approved 48 research grants for innovative projects in green chemistry.
Former IUPAC President Christopher Brett noted the growing interest in the programme and the importance of green chemistry in addressing global climate challenges. He expressed hope for the continued and expanded partnership between PhosAgro, UNESCO, and IUPAC.
First Deputy CEO of PhosAgro, Siroj Loikov, emphasized the company's commitment to eco-efficient fertilizers and its role in promoting sustainability. He acknowledged the significance of the Green Chemistry for Life initiative, which has been transformative for young scientists across various regions, including Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Latin America. Loikov affirmed PhosAgro's ongoing collaboration under the UN to support future generations' prosperity.
PhosAgro, a Russian company, is recognized as a leading global producer of phosphate-based fertilizers. Its support for the UNESCO programme underscores the vital role of industry partnerships in advancing scientific research for sustainable development.