Experiences with Implementation and Adoption of Integrated Pest Management in Italy

Abstract

The optimization of crop protection strategies to reduce the risk and impact of pesticides on human health and the environment began in Italy in the early 1970s. An innovative approach for crop protection was first devised through specific research programs, the involvement of farmers and financial support from the European Union (EU). A key step for integrated pest management (IPM) implementation was the application of the agroenvironmental measures (Reg. EEC no. 2078/92) that required definition of what was meant by IPM and which solutions could provide quantifiable benefits. Fundamental in that phase was the definition, in agreement with the European Union, of the principles and general criteria to be used in the implementation of IPM and the setting up of a National IPM Committee. From 1997 onwards, the National IPM Committee has been working to guarantee that the application of IPM evolves in full respect of the defined criteria. Since then IPM has spread progressively to 2 million hectares, involving 119 crops, and obtaining high implementation percentages, especially on the horticultural crops where pesticide inputs are very high. The regions have responsibility for the implementation of IPM. The system in Emilia-Romagna region is reported on, which involves more than 200 advisors as well as technical support for overseeing the implementation of IPM on around 80% of horticultural crops. Significant results have been obtained in the reduction of use of those pesticides with a high risk for human health and the environment.