Mobile platforms, digital geology: Belarus, Russia expand environmental cooperation

Active efforts are underway to deploy a joint project titled as Modernization and Development of the Union State Radiation Monitoring System Using Mobile Radiometric Measurement Platforms.

“A vital element of our cooperation lies in advancing scientific research and bolstering human resource potential, particularly within the hydrometeorological service,” Maksim Lysenko noted.

Annually, National Center for Hydrometeorology, Radioactive Pollution Control, and Environmental Monitoring (Belhydromet) sends about 10 specialists to institutions of the Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring of Russia (Roshydromet) for training and professional development across various educational programs.

The Belarusian side is also keen to leverage Russia’s cutting-edge expertise in organizing tourism within specially protected natural areas. Particular attention was paid to the regulatory frameworks governing this sector, aiming to implement effective mechanisms and adapt the best practices in Belarus.

The parties also reviewed the outcomes of the Intergovernmental Council on Exploration, Use, and Protection of Mineral Resources session held in Minsk in September. Specifically, they stressed the need to tighten cooperation between enterprises affiliated with the Russian and Belarusian ministries of natural resources. Key areas for deeper engagement include geological mapping, the digitalization of the geological sector, and joint geology-focused initiatives.

Consideration was also given to transferring historical geological data from the archive of the Russian Federal Geological Fund (Rosgeolfond), which was gathered over the years during various studies of Belarusian territory.

In addition, the heads of the environmental ministries discussed the date and agenda for the upcoming joint board meeting of the Belarusian and Russian ministries of natural resources, set to take place in Belarus.