Improving pesticide policy
Supported by EU funding, the 'Bystanders, residents, operators and workers exposure models for plant protection products' (BROWSE) project has reviewed, improved and extended the models currently used in risk assessment of plant protection products (PPPs). The new exposure models contributed to updating regulations on authorisation and use of PPPs. All revised models involved relevant stakeholder and end-user communities. The work also took into account relevant gender issues in developing the exposure models and policy tools. The project resulted in improved models for assessing exposure of operators, workers, residents and bystanders to pesticides. The advanced models are implemented in freely available, easy-to-use software, which end users can download from the project website and run on their own computers. The software is accompanied by user instructions and detailed technical documentation. The models and software are designed with the authorities responsible for pesticide regulation in mind. Also developed through this funding was a new e-training platform. This new platform lets users search and view a wide range of existing training materials on sustainable use of pesticides to reduce exposure and risk. The platform enables users to select materials of interest and combine them to create unique training programmes. There is a new approach to measuring risk. Instead of directly measuring risk, indirect behavioural indicators are used. These measure progress in actions to reduce risk. The new approach includes training for farmers and operators along with improved application techniques, procedures for handling pesticides and disposing of waste. This new methodology assesses the link between risk perceptions, attitudes and protective behaviours related to pesticide exposure. It generates data used for targeting risk communication and risk mitigation initiatives. The methodology was tested in surveys in Greece, Italy and the United Kingdom. Expected impact depends on acceptance by EU and national authorities, industry and other stakeholders. To maximise stakeholder acceptance, stakeholders had direct involvement, through workshops, consultations and evaluations organised during the project and they were also part of the advisory panel.
Keywords
Pesticides, exposure models, plant protection products, pesticide regulation, pesticide exposure
