The FSC Pesticides Policy (FSC-POL-30-001) regulates the use of pesticides in certified operations.
The key elements of the policy are:
- identification and avoidance of ‘highly hazardous’ pesticides;
- promotion of ‘non-chemical’ methods of pest management as an element of an integrated pest management strategy;
- and appropriate use of those pesticides that are employed.
The FSC International Board of Directors decided to revise this policy in March 2015, and in November, approved the terms of reference (ToRs) for an interest-balanced working group (WG) to lead the revision.
The WG will comprise six stakeholders and three technical experts, who together represent both Southern and Northern perspectives of the social, environmental, and economic interests of FSC. It will be responsible for developing FSC’s fundamental approach to pesticide use.
The call for members for the WG is now open. The deadline for applications is 31 January 2016. For details on the process and work of the WG see the ToRs. If you believe you can make a contribution in this area, please apply by filling out the online application form.
If required, FSC agrees to negotiate a fee for the participation in the WG discussions, and it also covers reasonable travel and accommodation expenses related to the work plan.
Please send any further questions to Pasi Miettinen or Diana Franco at: pesticides.policy@fsc.org.