The Caribbean Soil Laboratory Network (CARSOLAN) is poised to benefit from the expertise of the Global Soil Laboratory Network (GLOSOLAN) to improve soil analytical capacity by strengthening soil data systems, improving laboratory quality, and representation in global soil initiatives.
These priority areas were identified during a virtual meeting on 11 September 2025, held under the theme “Strengthening Collaboration with GLOSOLAN.”
The session brought together Caribbean soil laboratory representatives from Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Haiti, Jamaica, Barbados, regional partners, and international experts from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to chart a path toward harmonized laboratory practices and enhanced capacity across the region.
Chairman of the Caribbean Soil Laboratory Network (CARSOLAN), Mr. David B. Fredericks (Guyana), explained that the meeting “Sets the stage for real momentum.”
According to Fredericks, “If we are to move CARSOLAN forward, we need direction, harmonization, and the upgrading of our laboratories. That is where the real challenge—and the real progress—will come.”
Feature presenter Dr. Mansonia A. Politi Moncada, International Soil Laboratory Specialist (FAO), outlined GLOSOLAN’s mandate to harmonize soil laboratory methods worldwide. Supported by colleague Dr. Álvaro Calleja Huerta, she highlighted opportunities for Caribbean labs to align with global best practices through standardizing soil analysis procedures, establishing national soil laboratory networks, strengthening training and proficiency testing, and integrating Caribbean data into international soil monitoring systems.
The meeting concluded with key agreements, including a review of existing soil laboratory manuals to ensure alignment with GLOSOLAN standards, identification of gaps in procedures, equipment, and resources, and a collective commitment to establish National Soil Laboratory Networks (NASOLANs). CARSOLAN also agreed to work closely with FAO’s experts to strengthen training and technical support across the Caribbean.
Participants of this meeting included Chair David B. Fredericks (Guyana), Vice-Chair Dr. Beverley Wood (Barbados), representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Haiti, and Jamaica, along with Dr. Ronen Francis- Executive Director of the PISLM, Mr. Lakeram Singh Chief Technical Officer of PISLM, and experts from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
CARSOLAN will continue its collaboration with GLOSOLAN by participating in two upcoming virtual engagements: the Latin America & Caribbean Regional Meeting on 9 October 2025 and the GLOSOLAN Annual Plenary Meeting from 11–13 November 2025, (virtual) a global event featuring elections and key updates.
