Text LE-I – questions 6 to 8

Quite separate from the POPs(persistent organic pollutants) agenda isthe problem of pesticide use in developing countries and countries with economies in transition. The history of pesticide abuse is legend. The environment, water quality, and public health consequences are well known. While the “Prior Informed Consent” programme of FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) and IRPTC (International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals) is an important step, the abuse and misuse of agricultural chemicals remains a major problem in many countries, especially in Latin America, Asia and Eastern Europe. There are no easy answers or recommendations, however the issue is so important both for public health and the environment, with large off-site economic costs, that FAO needs to develop a specific action plan in the field of pesticide use. The action plan needs to include assessment, education, demonstration, chemical replacement, storage and destruction

Actions by national governments, such as reduction or elimination of price subsidies, can have significant beneficial effects through reduced pesticide use. Combined with training in integrated pest management, reduced pesticide use can achieve both ecological (including water quality) and economic advantages at the local level.

_{Internet: . Access: Oct. 8/2001 (with adaptations).}

FAO has yet to develop a specific policy for the pesticide use.