Given the global scope of the CoCoFe, do you think the objectives are appropriate? If not, how would you add to them or modify them? Yes the objectives are appropriate.
How should be the CoCoFe be structured to have the maximum positive impact? It should be a guide to developing a code of conduct that can be utilised in regions around the world to follow core principles in developing a code that is appropriate to each regions circumstances.
Who would be the best audience for the CoCoFe to meet our objectives and how could we broaden and diversify this audience to increase its influence? Government, fertilizer industry, relevant NGO’s and farmers. The greater the relevance of the code and the greater the involvement of these organisations in its development – the greater the dissemination and influence.
What should the scope of the CoCoFe be? Which nutrient input sources should be included; only synthetic fertilizers, or also manure, biosolids, compost, etc.? Should other products such as bio-stimulants, nitrification inhibitors, urease inhibitors, etc., be included as well? The principles of nutrient management should be applied consistently across all sources, so all should be included. Controlled release, slow release, and inhibitor products are increasingly a part of efficient nutrient management and should be included. Bio-stimulants are a less direct influence and perhaps it is not appropriate to include them.
Will the CoCoFe assist in promoting responsible and judicious use of fertilizers? Why or why not? What other suggestions do you have to help the CoCoFe meet our objectives? If it is done well it can certainly assist, it must allow for a balance between productivity and environmental objectives appropriate to each region. A good example of public policy to manage fertilizers is the Queensland Governments Reef Regulation (https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/agriculture/sustainable-farming/reef) . Developed in consultation with NGO’s like WWF, farmers and the fertilizer industry it mandates good management practices based on the best available scientific evidence for both productivity and environmental protection. The industry stewardship program Fertcare® (http://www.fertilizer.org.au/Fertcare) is an effective program in ensuring the reef regulations are understood and supported by industry advisors.
Sr. Nicholas Drew