Barnier plan to reduce the pesticides

Michel BARNIER, Minister of Agriculture, presented on 10th September last in Council of Ministers the main themes of his plan aimed at reducing pesticides in France by 50% between now and 2018.

This plan will cost 206 million euros over the first three years. About 150 million euros will come from already existing budget headings. Which budget headings will be used to finance the 45.5 million euros needed, still remains to be determined.

Remember that France is the largest consumer of pesticides in Europe.

This plan, referred to as ECOPHYTO 2018, is based on height proposals, including:
 Reinforcement of the data collection of the pesticides used,
 Establishing a specific measurement: the number of unit doses (NOUD).

This will make it possible to measure the intensity and not the volume of pesticides.

In fact, between 2001 and 2005, the farmers have reduced the volumes of pesticides used, but these pesticides were more powerful.
 Establishing, between now and 2012, indicators to calculate the impact and the risks of using pesticides. There is for the moment no data on this matter.
 Creation between now and 2010 of a certificate for the control of phyto-sanitary products that the farmers will have to comply with.

A part of the measures of the Barnier plan will be registered in the frame of the project of the Grenelle de l’Environnement blueprint law.

www.lesechos.fr - 10th September 2008