S.L. Weerasena, Chairperson of the Standing Committee of Pesticides noted that there had been substantial developments in the management of pesticides in the Asia Pacific region. These developments are reflected in the activity reports of member countries.
The IPM programmes implemented in the countries were successful not only with reduction of pesticide use, but also in the promotion of the concept of organic farming.
Most of the countries in the region have recently revised or are in the process of revising pesticide legislation to address the health and environmental concerns.
At international level, FAO has held workshops on harmonization of pesticide use and the disposal of obsolete/unwanted and banned pesticides. Outcomes of these workshops are being made available to sub-regional countries.
The use of biopesticides has increased in the region and workshops had been held to share knowledge and experience.
