In 2009 the European Parliament and the Council of the EU decided to establish a framework for Community action to achieve the sustainable use of pesticides (Directive 2009/128/EC). This framework includes promoting the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) amongst EU Member States. For this purpose, the Directive adopted the definition of IPM of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) with minor adaptations:

“Integrated Pest Management (IPM) means the careful consideration of all available pest control techniques and subsequent integration of appropriate measures that discourage the development of pest populations and keep pesticides and other interventions to levels that are economically and ecologically justified and reduce or minimize risks to human health and the environment. IPM emphasizes the growth of a healthy crop with the least possible disruption to agro-ecosystems and encourages natural pest control mechanisms.”

This, however, remains a rather general definition that does not explicitly mention key features of IPM such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and the use of resistant varieties.

For this reason, and given the fact that there are many definitions of IPM out there, the aim of this conference is to “redefine IPM” by referring to the problems encountered by the current state of agricultural practices. The conference furthermore aims to exemplify the economic viability and practicability of a transition towards a true form of sustainable agriculture in Europe, and make IPM a clearer and workable tool across all EU Member States.

REGISTRATION