EFFECTS OF PLANT PROTECTION PRODUCTS ON NON-TARGET ORGANISMS - A CONTRIBUTION TO THE DISCUSSION OF RISK —ASSESSMENT AND RISK MITIGATION FOR TERRESTRIAL NON-TARGET ORGANISMS (FLORA AND FAUNA)

摘要

The use of plant protection products may have adverse effects on populations of non-target organisms, even if the products are applied according to the principles of good agricultural practice. In addition, plant protection products may cause exposureof non-target organisms (flora and fauna) in off-crop habitats via spray drift. This paper describes how risk assessmentfor non-target organisms, especially for off-crop habitats, could be conducted. It identifies research and action needed to protect the environment from unacceptable effects. The following needs are identified: - to intensify international cooperation and harmonization with regard to risk assessment (especially dose-effect analyses). - to identify endangered species and habitats, - to elaborate parameters for assessing long-term damage of populations, and- to elaborate risk mitigation strategies and implement these strategies in the authorization procedure for plant protection products.