Are pesticides a pestilence?

Pesticides have taken up residence in our farming techniques. Not only are they applied to treat pests once they are detected, they are routinely used as preventative measures on seed coatings and in the soil. And this use is driving changes in global trade. Recent trade agreements have determined that Australia must cease using Omethoate to control red-legged mites if they want to continue selling their canola into the EU.

The link between chemicals such a Chlorothalonil and plummeting bee numbers is well studied. Recognising this, many OECD companies either have, or are in the process of banning certain pesticides from use. Instead, countries are incorporating ecological and/or technology-based solutions, restructuring farming practices and seeking less harmful chemical substitutes.

When considering chemical applications, regulatory bodies must take into account specific environmental requirements, economic practices and values, and local laws. This often requires a case-by-case approach, which means that some jurisdictions lag well behind others. The EU appears to be leading the charge with stricter import regulations, but the overall trend is towards the reduction of farming reliance on chemical solutions.

We understand that farming is essential, as is the reduction in damage from harsh chemicals. It is our purpose to make the shift away from the most harmful chemicals as easy and transparent as possible - so that farmers can continue to feed the world without causing harm.