Less use of pesticides in municipalities is possible | Umweltbundesamt

The aim of the joint conference of the German Environment Agency (UBA) and BUND/Friends of the Earth Germany is to inform other municipalities about the risks and impact of chemical plant protection, or biocide use, and to demonstrate ways in which to forego the use of pesticides in future. The conference programme includes presentations and workshops and will also host the information booths of some producers of alternative methods of weeding and rodent control and their tools.

Municipal land space is becoming increasingly important because the quality of agriculture land as habitat for many species of animals and plants (e.g. wild pollinating insects, birds, typical field weeds) has been decimated dramatically. "Many cities and local authorities have taken an interest in reducing the use of pesticides on public land or doing without pesticides altogether. This initiative also reflects the will of many citizens and promotes the protection of insects and reduces pollution", says Detlef Raphael, an official from the Association of German Cities and Towns and also patron of the conference.

Green spaces which are accessible year-round as habitat for insects are particularly important since they have become so rare on spaces where intensive agriculture occurs. This is why the conference prioritized discussion of issues concerning municipal land used for agriculture and the rules governing lease agreements. Early planning in management and the appropriate selection of plant types of green areas can help to reduce the use of pesticides. When combined with the use of alternative weed control methods, municipal land areas can make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of biodiversity. Some alternative techniques such as the use of brushes or thermic procedures using hot water were presented.

It is not always necessary to use biocides to protect human health or materials. Many applications in municipalities can already do with less use of biocides. There is great potential in the use of smart trap systems and trap protection stations to monitor and control rat infestation in sewer systems, which will also be presented at the conference.

Municipalities nevertheless face the challenge of considering alternatives when it comes to tenders for services and the procurement of biocide-free alternatives. An ongoing research project by UBA focuses on how to promote the procurement of biocide-free alternatives for the sake of man and the environment.