|
Pesticides’
abuse cause of cancer
By L.B.Senaratne
The main causes of cancer are due
to the indiscriminate use of pesticides in the fields
and elsewhere, says Minister of Science and Technology
Professor Tissa Vitharane.
He said a study conducted by a committee
led by him appointed by former President Chandrika Kumaratunga
on the reasons for cancer concluded that this was due
to the indiscriminate use of pesticides.
 |
| Picture shows SLSI Chairman Dr.
A.R.L.Wijesekera handing over the book on the ‘Code
of Practice’ to Professor Tissa Vitharane. |
He said pesticides are imported into
the country in bulk and then diluted and whether the
dilution is in the correct proportions is a matter for
concern.
The minister was speaking at the launch
of the National Standards for Bio-gas held at Gannoruwa
Institute of Continuing Education of the Department
of Animal Production, Gannoruwa.
In order to standardise the manufacture
of Bio-gas units, two books ' The code of practice for
Design and Construction of Biogas systems" were
launched here. Another book a translation of' Bio Gas
technology' by one of the Bio Gas pioneers, G.K.Upawansa
was also launched at this ceremony.
The books were handed over by the
Chairman of the Sei Lanka Standards Institute Dr.A.R.L.Wijesekera
to the Minister.
Minister of Livestock and Infrastructure
Development C.B. Ratnayake addressing the participants
said that to a certain extent Bio-Gas could be an area
which could curtail the used of other energy resources.
He said in the 1980's large reservoirs were built to
obtain energy and later they had to also install generators
for this purpose and towards this end a large amount
of fuel had to be used. Now the move is to use coal
for the operation of energy by steam operations.
“When we speak of Bio Gas, huge
strides have been made by India and China.
These governments faced the problem
of an ever increasing population and they then turned
towards Bio Gas as an energy source,” he added.
Dr Vitharane said that in most industrialised
countries where they have animals such a cows, broilers
and other types of animals, Bio Gas is extensively used
especially near farms.
|
