The Technical Background to the Use of the Leading Specialist Adjuvants in Agriculture
The Voluntary Initiative is a voluntary programme which identifies
the measures necessary to minimise the environmental impact
of pesticides. It is seen as a possible alternative to a
pesticide tax and is supported
by a wide range of industry groups. It undertakes activities
in research, training, stewardship and communications.
The key aims of the VI are to protect water quality, benefit
biodiversity and promote good practice.
The beneficial effects of adjuvants with crop protection
chemicals has a positive contribution to the achievement
of some of the objectives of the VI.
i) Improved targeting of pesticide sprays
improving chemical compatibility
improving water quality (adjust pH (buffering),
removing antagonistic calcium and magnesium ions)
ii) A reduction of the amount of pesticide required
to achieve the desired effect
reducing drift
reducing evaporation of the spray mixture
iii) Minimising drift and water contamination
reducing bounce
improving coverage (of waxy leaves, upright grass-weeds)
improving spray distribution (in dense crops or through the soil structure)
“Ultimately the way forward lies in the sustainable
use of as little product as possible , but as much as necessary to sustain
an European agricultural sector that is economically viable, environmentally
sound and socially responsible”
Dr Friedheim, Schmider, ECPA Director General.
Products
Adjuvant Guide
Crop
Specials
Importance of
adjuvants in the Voluntary Initiative