Increasing uptake of digital technology on farms means plant protection product (PPP) approval criteria and product labels could soon better reflect how they are used in the real world and result in more efficient and sustainable PPP use.

At present, the vast majority of pesticide product authorisations are based on risk assessments for blanket applications through a traditional hydraulic boom sprayer.

Strict thresholds

PPPs are also required to meet strict efficacy thresholds against the target weed, pest or pathogen for approval, which often means a robust dose is recommended by the manufacturer.

See also: Why agri-tech and nature have a place on the farm of the future

However, growers are increasingly using alternative means of application, such as inter-row or band application of some products, which can significantly lower overall use whilst still maintaining efficacy.

Bayer’s Farmer Voice Survey, which quizzed more than 2,000 farmers from multiple countries around the world revealed that these precision applications are a key driver of digital farming adoption.

As this adoption gathers pace and artificial intelligence (AI) tools improve, there will be more remote sensing of pest, weed and disease issues, spot spraying, automated spraying with drones or robots, and even AI chatbots providing data-driven recommendations.

Changing practices

Janet Williams, Bayer’s senior regulatory science manager for UK, Ireland and Nordics, explains that as these technologies become more commonplace, the regulatory system must adapt and acknowledge the changing practices in the field.

The European Precision Application Task Force (EUPAF) has been established in order to help standardise the language used to describe precision application, identify the different categories of technology and adapt regulatory assessments to reflect their benefits.

Currently, many active substances or products are failing risk assessments when assessed on the existing criteria and modelling and are being lost from the market at a concerning rate.

“New precision application techniques can be used to help farmers to protect crops and maintain productivity, all with less environmental impact,” says Janet.

Digital labels

She adds that the transition to digital farming will be aided by new legislation in the EU, which aims to harmonise PPP labelling requirements within the EU27 and will also be applicable in Northern Ireland.

In addition to a physical label, a machine-readable digital label – accessible through a single code scan – will also be required for all new products submitted to regulatory authorities from 1 January 2026.

Farmers in the EU will also be required to electronically record PPP use from the same date.

AgriGuide, a tool developed by CropLife Europe and available as an app or computer software, will help farmers access the labels and support digital recording for compliance.

In the future, it is anticipated that scanning the code will automatically programme the application protocol of a product into the application equipment, along with information and advice on IPM.

Appropriate use

When combined with other data, such as local weather, this will help ensure the product is used appropriately and correctly at all times.

In return, manufacturers and regulators will be able to access real-world data on how and when PPPs are being used, which can then feed into future risk assessments, offering much more realistic evaluations when products are up for renewal.

“The problem with the current system is that you have to pass multiple worst-case scenario assessments and the bar is set very high.

“Real-world data would enable us all to better evaluate the actual risks posed by the use of products,” adds Janet.