Global report on validated alternatives to the use of methyl bromide for soil fumigation [antikvár]

PREFACE Methyl bromide (MeBr) is a fumigant used to control arthropods, nematodes, pathogens and weed seeds in soil in several crops, such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, tobacco, strawberries, ornamentals and other crops. Some years ago it was discovered that this fumigant is a strong chemical depleting the Earth's ozone layer. Its ozone depletion potential is 0.4, i.e. higher than the admissible threshold of 0.2. In addition, it is also known that bromine released by MeBr is 40 times more aggressive than chlorine in breaking down ozone on a per atom basis. Governments and international agencies, aware of the problem, have agreed to establish a programme for phasing out the use of MeBr. Since the fumigant is used in several high-income crops, the established phase out gives time to the countries for the development of new altematives to replace MeBr. During the last five-seven years some projects and activities have been carried out in several countries which had a high consumption of MeBr as soil fumigant. The work has been applied field research for the development of new alternatives and demonstrations in large plots of highly effective methods. As a result of the above work there are available some published materials on new MeBr altematives, which describe the feasibility and the disadvantage of each new pest control measure. Some of these publications resulted from several workshops and symposia organized in different countries by UNEP, UNIDO and other organizations. The main purpose of the present report is to provide information on successfully used altematives in some countries or regions, where MeBr phase out is in progress. Although the report often shows the lack of already validated altematives, particularly for a region like Africa, the material provides enough elements about the technical and economical success of the use of several altematives, as well as those which are nearly to be introduced into the agricultural practice. Agricultural researchers and extensionists could use this information for further studies and / or validation. This material, along with the Manual prepared by FAO (sponsored by UNEP)"', can also be a good reference for the training on new R. Braga, R. Labrada, L. Fornasari and N. Fratini. Manual for Training of Extension Workers and Farmers on Altematives to Methyl Bromide for Soil Fumigation. FAO Plant Production and Protection Paper (in press)