The 2019 BCPC Congress – Understanding the Demands and Opportunities of a "Green Brexit" – How Do We Deliver Food Production Alongside Environmental Enhancement?

Abstract

This was the 7th Congress since BCPC decided to return to Brighton for an autumnal discussion on regulatory affairs. The focus was to be very much on the impact of Brexit that had been promised, but not yet delivered. Whatever happens in the future regarding the UK's relationship with the EU, many changes in UK agriculture are expected as the government empathises on the environment rather than production, with farmers having to contend with fewer pesticides registered for use, increasing problems of insects, diseases and weeds resistant to pesticides and the impact of climate change. Farmers will still have to produce high quality food at a low cost to the consumer as the EU policy is to adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as part of the strategy for the sustainable use of pesticides. New technology with genetic engineering, which is increasing the possibility to improve crop varieties more resistant to pests and diseases as well as drought conditions, has to be embraced alongside new ways of applying pesticides and automation in a digital era.