Also, many old, often highly toxic, organophosphorus pesticide formulations continue to be used there because of their low price. Often, small farmers simply cannot handle such compounds, FAO warned. Protective clothing is often too expensive and, in many cases, cannot be used due to the climate in these countries. The Convention will be powerful tool to limit access to such compounds. It will help to promote environmentally friendly Integrated Pest Management in agriculture.
Companies based in Western Europe are currently the world's largest chemical producers.
The fastest growing markets are in developing countries, particularly in Latin America and Asia. Africa is increasingly using pesticides on export crops. Mr. Michael Williams, of UNEP, in Geneva at tel.