On the occasion of relevant protests by beekeepers on the loss of population of bees due to non-or incomplete implementation of the general principles of integrated pest management or non-correct use of pesticides and particularly the period of the flowering of the orchards, they are reminded of the following:
1. In accordance with the above relevant joint ministerial DECISION, the general principles of integrated pest management will become mandatory by professional users of pesticides and in particular:
1.1. Sustainable biological, physical and other non-chemical methods must be preferred to chemical methods if they provide satisfactory pest control.
1.2. The pesticides applied shall be as specific as possible for the target and shall have the least side effects on human health, non-target organisms and the environment.
1.3. The protection and enhancement of important beneficial organisms (such as bees), with appropriate plant protection measures.
1.4. To avoid the application of preventive sprays and preference is given to preparations that do not harm beneficial insects and mites, which at this time are in activity.
1.5. To comply with the instructions for proper use of pesticides (conditions of spray, maintenance spray machinery, minimum spraying distances, posting a plate 48 hours before spray etc.)
2. To read and apply the instructions written on the label of plant protection products.
Finally, it is recalled that the responsible scientists in the shops are obliged to inform the traders professional users on the measures for the protection of people and the environment during the use of pesticides.
More information is available on the website of the ΥπΑΑΤ: (http://www.minagric.gr/index.php/el/for-farmer-2/crop-production/fytoprostasiamenu/oloklfytoprostasia-menu).
The rational use of pesticides in the spring sprays
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