The Pesticides Forum has published its latest annual report ‘Pesticides in the UK – the 2009 report on the impacts and sustainable use of pesticides’.
The Report can be viewed on the Forum website:
http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/pesticides_forum_home.asp
Major organisations are backing the document including the RSPB and National Farmers’ Union, Pesticides Action Network – UK and Crop Protection Association. The report shows the latest use and impact of pesticides across the UK.
Speaking at Cereals 2010, taking place near Royston in Cambridgeshire, the Chairman of the Pesticides Forum, James Clarke, said:
“I am sure people will welcome one document that draws together the work of Government, industry and other important stakeholders to find ways of reducing the impact from the use of pesticides. I believe pesticides can help in meeting the challenge of sustainable production, but can also play a role in ensuring the UK has a resilient, profitable and competitive food system.”
Mr Clarke also highlighted the finding of Isoproturon in samples at several times higher than the drinking water standard despite this product being withdrawn from use after June 2009.
He continued: “While the vast majority of responsible farmers and growers follow good or best practice, these findings undermine all the good work that has gone on recently, often under the auspices of the Voluntary Initiative. Although it appears that only a small number of growers have used these products illegally it highlights the need for appropriate enforcement and penalties to prevent misuse by even a few.”
The Pesticides Forum brings together 26 major stakeholder organisations concerned with the use, and the impacts resulting from the use of pesticides. Its membership includes agricultural, environmental and other interests and seeks to advise Government and industry on responsible pesticide use. The Forum meets three times a year.
All enquiries concerning the report should be addressed in the first instance to the Chair of the Forum, James Clarke on 01954 268219 or email james.clarke@adas.co.uk
For further information about the work of the Pesticides Forum please contact the Secretary Nigel Chadwick, Chemicals Regulation Directorate, Room 214, Mallard House, Kings Pool, 3 Peasholme Green, York. YO1 7PX, Tel. No. 01904 455723. Alternatively, more information can be found on the Forum's website: http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/pesticides_forum_home.asp