EVIOF leads the transition to “Green Plant Protection” in Greece

"Green Plant Protection, in the Europe of the Future" was the focus of a Round Table organized by ELGO-DIMITRA in collaboration with the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at the Conference Amphitheatre of the Agricultural University of Athens on Thursday, May 30.

As highlighted during the discussion, the availability of pesticides is dramatically reduced within the framework of the "Green Deal" of the European Union, creating an environment with many challenges but also opportunities during the process of transition to Green Plant Protection.

During her statement, the Director of Plant Protection of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Food, Anna Mavridou noted, among other things, that there are still phenomena with unapproved drugs, while she also focused on the cost, which she emphasized is high.

He also noted that producers are wary of using new drugs, since they are both more expensive and more difficult to use, while they question their effectiveness.

He also mentioned that there are concerns about the future because active substances are being reduced, while if the "Green Deal" guidelines are implemented and we are not ready, cultivation will be difficult for farmers.

The President of the Association of Biological and Ecological Plant Protection (EBIOF), Giorgos Komianos, spoke about the greatest challenges facing "green plant protection" in our country.

Among other things, he said that before we reach purely organic agriculture, we must first implement the framework and principles of integrated plant protection as defined and established at the European and state level.

He emphasized that research and technology have played a decisive role in recent years in the development of products that are effective and economical.
He focused on the lack of education and sensitivity from producers and agronomists, while emphasizing that a favorable legislative environment is required for the approvals of bioprotectants both in terms of cost and speed.

Finally, he proposed the immediate establishment of an Advisory Committee to redefine the Strategy for the transition to Green Plant Protection.

For his part, George Pontikas, President of the Hellenic Plant Protection Association (ESYF), emphasized that the industry is positive about the Green Deal. It should invest in 4 pillars: propagating material, chemistry & plant protection, organics and Services, as he pointed out.

Source: agrocapital.gr