3 Measure Use
ICM

We want to know how much pesticide is being used as a marker for the future. The long term aim is to reduce the total use of pesticides, particularly those on the Co-operative's banned or monitored lists. In order to do that we, at the Co-op, want to find out and explain examples of good practice so that all our suppliers can benefit. There are two main issues - Crop Management & Pesticide Use.

The guiding principle of Integrated Crop Management (ICM) seeks to understand the nature of the pest, so that other biological or cultural methods may be used instead of chemicals. (More detailed definition)

The basic principles of ICM are: To minimise the impact on inputs, such as fertilisers and crop protection chemicals. To minimise pollution of water, air and soil. The overall reduction in fossil fuel use with the aim of improving the on-farm energy balance. The maintenance and improvement of site-appropriate ecological diversity and wildlife habitats. The maintenance and improvement of landscape and farm buildings together with the amenity value of the countryside. Co-op Code

How are these Principles Achieved?

Biological and Cultural Mechanisms offer different ways of doing things.

Organisation and management. ICM is a dynamic process that requires, first and foremost, careful and detailed organisation and management.

Good Agricultural Practice is the achievement of the desired degree of control of pests and diseases at an economic cost with minimum hazard to operators and other people in the vicinity, consumers, beneficial organisms and the environment.