The Department of Ecology at the College of Science, University of Basra, organized a workshop on evaluating superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) in sustainable irrigation applications.

The workshop aimed to introduce superabsorbent polymers and their ability to reduce irrigation water consumption by up to 50%. They also reduce fertilizer waste, retain soluble fertilizers and nutrients, and prevent their leaching into the soil and groundwater, thus increasing fertilizer use efficiency.

The workshop, presented by Dr. Najla Hashim Adlan, a faculty member in the Department of Ecology, covered the mechanism of action of polymers, their types used in agriculture, their economic and environmental benefits, and a comparison with traditional farming methods.

The workshop recommended the use of these polymers in agricultural processes for growing food crops, representing a revolutionary technology in the field of sustainable agriculture and combating desertification.