Agrochemical and drinkwater companies cooperate with farmers' organisations and water boards towards 'clean sources'

17 July 2006

The use of agrochemicals can cause exceeding the Maximum Tolerable Risk-levels in groundwater or surface water.

At the end of 2005 the final report "Schone bronnen, nu en in de toekomst" (Clean sources, now and in the future) was presented during the annual meeting of the agrochemical board NEFYTO and handed over to Hugo von Meijenfeldt, director Soil, Water and Rural Areas at the Ministry of VROM (Environment, Public Housing and Spatial Planning). Mr. von Meijenfeldt accepted the report on behalf of minister of Agriculture mr. Veerman and Secretary of State for the Environment mr. Van Geel.

One was, and still is, very pleased about this cooperation that looked very unlikely until recently. NEFYTO (board of agrochemicals producers), LTO (Farmers organistion), VEWIN (board of drinking water producers) and the Union of water boards. For 5 substances in specific, a review was carried out on how to minimize negative effects from applying these compounds. 

A sequel is requested from many sides. The European Water Framework Directive and European efforts like TOPPS (Training Operators to Prevent Pollution from Point Sources) indicate that it is high time further agreements are made and actions taken accordingly.

Furthermore, the reports conclusions have to be communicated to, and implemented by, those people who actually apply these agrochemicals.

source: Waterspiegel december 2005