The State of Friborg on Monday drew up a positive interim assessment of the phytosanitary plan two years after its launch. The agricultural and non-agricultural measures implemented at the cantonal level have contributed to reducing the use of phytosanitary products.
For the Friborg authorities, the efforts made by all stakeholders are paying off. The results obtained show that farmers have already adopted the proposed control measures and used the funds made available to them.
Financial incentives made it possible to change crop protection practices, renew equipment and develop plots. Field checks have been intensified. 94% of crop samples comply with the conditions of use of these products.
The Grangeneuve (FR) skills center has strengthened its advisory activities to reduce the risks linked to plant protection products. Communication tools will be developed to complement this measure.
>> Read also: The canton of Friborg launches a vast plan against pesticides
Hobby gardeners
Amateur gardeners and municipal employees were also made aware of the use and disposal of these products which are harmful to the environment. Information and awareness campaigns for chemical-free garden management have been organized, particularly on social networks.
Efforts in terms of communication and continuing education must continue with professionals, individuals and institutions, noted the canton. The Environmental Service plans to launch new courses for home gardeners and continue to disseminate advice via social media.
After two years of implementation of the cantonal “Phyto Plan”, the financial report shows the impact of federal decisions in force since January 2023, making numerous cantonal incentive measures obligatory. Funds for these measures have more than tripled, going from 608,218 francs in 2022 to more than 1.94 million francs in 2023.
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