The technology to make crop protection smarter and more sustainable is available. However, existing regulatory frameworks often do not adequately accommodate innovations such as precision applications, drones, and robotics. As a result, it takes a long time before new techniques can actually be put into practice.

Fedecom advocates for regulations that support innovation and allow for new technologies that contribute to making agriculture more sustainable.

Farmers and contract operators will only invest in new technology when they have sufficient certainty about the future. This is all the more true because biological products often place different demands on machinery and application techniques than synthetic chemical products do.

Fedecom advocates for clear and stable policies regarding crop protection. Only with sufficient clarity regarding the future set of tools and the direction of policy can businesses make responsible investments in innovative techniques.

The current approval system focuses primarily on the properties of a product, while modern techniques can actually contribute to a significant reduction in exposure and emissions. By working in a more targeted manner, using less product, and treating only where necessary, the actual risk is reduced.

Fedecom therefore advocates for an assessment system that considers not only the product itself, but also how innovative techniques contribute to safer and more sustainable application.

New technologies should be assessed according to the same standards and criteria throughout Europe. This prevents unnecessary differences between member states and accelerates the introduction of innovations.

Furthermore, the use of precision technology requires new knowledge and skills. Fedecom believes it is important for entrepreneurs, consultants, and users to have access to education, practical knowledge, and demonstration projects. Only then can the full potential of innovative techniques be realized, and can the sector take the next step toward more sustainable crop protection.