BMP 7.- Plant Protection Product (PPP, i.e. pesticide) use according to Integrated Pest Management Strategy (IPM)

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) consists of the combination of a set of biological, biotechnological, chemical and cultural actions for crop protection. The correct use of PPPs – pesticides – starts with regular checks and the precise calibration of the spray equipment.

Within that follows, there are some points to take into account regarding transport, storage and container management:

  • Read and follow all label instructions.
  • Wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment when working with pesticides.
  • Rinse containers immediately after emptying because some pesticide residues will dry quickly and become difficult to remove. If the container cannot be rinsed immediately, replace the cap until it can be rinsed.
  • Never reuse the pesticide container (rinsed or not).
  • Never allow empty pesticide containers to accumulate where unauthorized people have access to them.
  • The proper transportation and storage of pesticides and the proper rinsing and disposal of empty pesticides containers demonstrate that applicators are competent professionals who are concerned about the environment.

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  • Management target
  • Sustainability Indicators


1.- Enhancement of Agro-biodiversity (enhance Habitats for birds; enhance soil fauna; increase fauna over the soil and edaphic fauna; enhance landscape diversity; provide ecosystem services such as pollination of crops, opportunities for recreation, …)

7.- Improvement of water quality

10.- Avoidance of contamination (local and diffuse)

21.- Optimised agrichemical use (PPP)

22.- Obtaining better applications efficiency


13.- Reduction in pest and disease pressure in field


A more rational use of PPPs will have an influence in the economics of the farm.

2.- EBITDA/labour unit


3.- Production costs 


7.- Effectiveness working time

The implementation of IPM Strategies could lead to a decrease in the working time due to the use of less PPPs.

8.- SI – Satisfaction Index

The implementation of this BMP could have a positive influence on the farmer’s perception.

14.- Energy balance

This indicator will change due to the inputs of PPP and its change in the Oil Equivalent Tonnes consumed on the farm.

24.- Use of PPPs in some farms close to water streams

A more rational use of PPPs diminishes the pollution risk in water streams.