Call to Action: Valorizing Phosphogypsum to Protect the Environment
Energy expert Mohamed Ghazi Ben Jemaa has emphasized the need to valorize phosphogypsum and take concrete measures to address the dangers it poses to agriculture, marine life, and populations inhaling toxic substances emitted by the Gabès Chemical Complex units.
In a statement made today, Monday, October 13, 2025, on National Radio, Mohamed Ghazi Ben Jemaa stressed that phosphogypsum should not be deposited near the sea, as this is considered extremely hazardous. He explained that there are logistical mechanisms in place to store it inland, thereby protecting the aquifer from any leakage.
Meanwhile, academic researcher and development specialist Houcine Rehaïli noted that there are numerous solutions for collecting phosphogypsum in an organized manner, ensuring the protection of natural resources. He called for revisiting previous studies and searching for protected sites far from residential areas, highlighting the need for the Ministry of Industry and the Gabès Chemical Complex to take responsibility for providing the necessary means to stop phosphogypsum dumping into the sea as a first step.
Today, a joint inspection team from the Ministries of Industry and Environment has begun operations to assess and inventory the Gabès Chemical Complex, with the goal of establishing a program to renew equipment and materials and identify shortcomings.
