In English
About Focus on Pesticide Use
About Focus on Pesticide Use
The "Focus on Pesticide Use" project in Sweden is a long-running initiative aiming at increasing awareness and disseminating information about the risks associated with the use and handling of plant protection products (pesticides). The work also includes disseminating information, making informative films, writing fact sheets and articles addressing farmers and growers all over Sweden.
The primary goals of the project are to enhance the proper use of personal protective equipment when handling the plant production products and to reduce the contamination of the environment, mainly waters. The project has been a collaborative effort involving authorities, interest organizations, and companies since 1997.
The Helper
The Helper
One of the key regulations in Sweden related to the use of plant protection products is the requirement for all professional users of pesticides to calculate and adhere to proper safety distances in order to minimize spray drift. This calculation takes into account local conditions and factors affecting the dispersion of pesticides during application. To assist farmers and other professional users in complying with these safety measures, a specific tool called the "Helper" or "Hjälpreda" in Swedish has been developed. This tool serves as a practical aid for farmers when spraying pesticides and aims to reduce the risk of spray drift.
The ultimate objective of these safety measures is to mitigate spray drift, which can have adverse effects on the environment, particularly on vulnerable terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems outside the treated fields. The project is especially concerned with protecting aquatic organisms, non-target invertebrates, and plants from the potential harm caused by pesticide contamination. By promoting proper handling and responsible use of plant protection products, the "Focus on Pesticide Use" project seeks to minimize the ecological and environmental impact of pesticides in Sweden.