Fate and toxicity of allelochemicals (natural plant toxins) in relation to environment and consumer

Objective

In recent years there has been an increasing focus on the prospects of exploiting allelopathy as an alternative strategy for controlling weeds, insects and diseases. However, the environmental and toxicological consequences of this should be investigated. The objective of the present project is to perform an environmental and human risk assessment of exploiting the allelopathic properties of wheat in modern farming and to develop a framework for future assessments of allelopathic crops. Well-described allelopathic properties of wheat combined with low environmental persistence and low toxicities will enhance the possibilities for farmers to make a sound production. If the evaluation of environmental persistence and human as well as environmental toxicities shows that the allelochemical compounds constitute a higher risk than the risk of low doses of synthetic pesticides, new views must be put on exploiting allelopathy.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-5. - Key action Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (7)