New laboratory to help protect and develop plant resources

Sharjah: Dr Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, inaugurated yesterday the Plant Health Laboratory (PHL) in Sharjah.

The laboratory provides a rapid diagnostic service for diseases which may be introduced into the country through trade or other means. The laboratory conducts a range of tests on samples submitted from various sources.

The minister said the laboratory, which was equipped with sophisticated systems and qualified professionals, would serve the ministry's strategic goals in raising bio-security standards and rates and enhance food and environment security, conserve, protect and develop plant resources. "The PHL will conduct research on causes of plant diseases and draw an effective plan for prevention and treatment," he said.