Defra launches consultation over pesticide use on soil

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has launched a consultation into the use of pesticides on UK soil.

Companies that have previously been authorised to use chemicals across the UK are likely to be interested in the outcome of the consultation.

This is because fees that businesses pay each year could be amended for the first time since 2007.

Defra has commissioned the process in order to find ways to protect the UK's currently impressive levels of soil quality by diminishing any adverse effects that pesticides may have on the environment.

New legislation will be made in line with the EU's Thematic Strategy on Pesticides.

In December 2010, the organisation announced that only "minor changes" would need to be made in the UK in order to bring the country in line with EU rulings.

"By making a small number of changes to our existing approach, we can continue to help feed a growing global population with high-quality food… while minimising the risks of using pesticides," Lord Henley commented at the time.

Posted by Lauren Steadman