Coordinated Integrated Pest Management in Europe

Europe faces the challenge of responding to the mandatory implementation of the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as called for by Directive 2009/128/EC on the sustainable use of pesticides. Most European countries are investing in research and extension to face this challenge, reduce reliance on pesticides, and reduce risks associated with their use. Added value and synergies can be created by coordinating such national research and extension efforts and by pooling existing resources. To this end, C-IPM will create a forum for exchange and identification of IPM research and development priorities, provide recommendations on national and European research, connect existing initiatives, and coordinate joint transnational research calls. With stakeholders and researchers, C-IPM will position IPM in the future European innovation landscape. It will provide an overall picture of ongoing and desired R&D efforts and of the resources available for IPM implementation. It will propose a common research agenda on IPM and on sustainable solutions in the context of minor uses. It will rapidly generate European-level added value by sharing outputs of ongoing national and regional research, and by disseminating R&D methods, experience and expertise. It will create knowledge hubs by linking R&D resources in the field of IPM and minor uses. It will develop and implement joint transnational calls. A website, newsletter and final workshop will ensure that C-IPM disseminates widely. To achieve lasting impact, C-IPM will plan its continued activity beyond the funded period. C-IPM realises that innovation and sustainability in crop protection can only come about if funders, researchers and farm advisers are closely associated, if multiple sectors are taken into account, and if all available control tactics and strategies are integrated. This approach is key to enriching the suite of IPM techniques and ensuring a high level of implementation of IPM among European farmers.