Michel Barnier , Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, presented September 10, 2008, the plan " Ecophyto 2018 "by the Cabinet. This plan aims to reduce by 50% the use of pesticides , if possible within 10 years. It also includes the recall of the 53 preparations containing active substances of greatest concern, including 30 by the end of 2008.
This plan is part of following the Grenelle of the environment as requested by the President of the Republic.
While maintaining a high level of agricultural production, France must produce more by reducing dependence on farm pesticides .
The priorities of this plan:
- disseminating good agricultural practices efficient pesticides through a network of pilot farms 3000,
- ensure the competence of all stakeholders (users, distributors, consultants),
- boost agricultural research and innovation,
- create an epidemiological surveillance network accessible to all farmers.
The plan was developed based on the findings of a working group involving representatives of users, manufacturers, politicians, scientists, NGOs , governments and chaired by Guy Paillotin, permanent secretary of the Academy of Agriculture.
"For years, French agriculture has embarked on new sustainable practices demonstrating that agriculture both productive and environmentally responsible way possible. The plan " Ecophyto 2018 "is another demonstration as is the commitment of agricultural labor and professional organizations at the Grenelle of the environment . This is a new French agricultural model that is built. " Michel Barnier .
Tags: environment , Council of Ministers , NGOs , Grenelle , Ecophyto , Minister of Agriculture , pesticide , active substances , agricultural research , Michel Barnier , pesticides
