The Government has announced a new strategy for the sustainable use of pesticides, in a bid to improve the environmental effects of the products. The guidelines cover action plans in the areas of water, biodiversity and amateur usage, among others.

The action plans will involve an implementation group of stakeholders, who will publish regular progress reports based on the strategies. "I am pleased to announce the publication of this strategy, which follows a public consultation last year. It will provide a framework for reducing the impact of pesticides on the environment, beyond that already provided by the rigorous approvals process. The action plans within the strategy will now be taken forward, which will allow further involvement of a wide range of stakeholders in this important area," commented Lord Bach, Minister for Sustainable Farming and Food.
(Green Consumers Guide, 27/03/06)
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