Д-р. Joseph Bagyaraj

Centre for Natural Biological Resources and Community Development (CNBRCD)
Индия

Given the global scope of the CoCoFe, do you think the objectives are appropriate?  If not, how would you add to them or modify them?

Reply: The objectives are appropriate.

How should be the CoCoFe be structured to have the maximum positive impact?

Reply: To have representatives from different agroecological zones of the world.

Who would be the best audience for the CoCoFe to meet our objectives and how could we broaden and diversify this audience to increase its influence?

Reply: People in governance, policy makers, scientists and progressive farmers.

What should the scope of the CoCoFe be? Which nutrient input sources should be included; only synthetic fertilizers, or also manure, biosolids, compost, etc.?  Should other products such as bio-stimulants, nitrification inhibitors, urease inhibitors, etc., be included as well?

Reply: Not only chemical fertilizers but also organic manures including compost, green manures, biofertilizers and biocontrol agents should be included.

Will the CoCoFe assist in promoting responsible and judicious use of fertilizers?  Why or why not?  What other suggestions do you have to help the CoCoFe meet our objectives? 

Reply: CoCoFe can assist in promoting judicious use of fertilizers. 

Other suggestions: Soils and soil organisms provide a multitude of agricultural ecosystem services, including waste breakdown and release of nutrients, enhancing soil structure, biodegradation of pesticides and other chemicals, providing a sink for greenhouse gas emissions, fighting pests and soil-borne plant pathogens, and benefiting human and animal health including digestion and immunity. Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and potassium and micronutrients contribute to the soil quality and productivity. Hence, it is important to maintain proper biodiversity and nutrient levels in the soils in order to improve the nutrition and crop productivity.