Plant protection products in the forest - how dangerous are they really?
Strict tests and clear rules
Modern plant protection products are subject to strict testing procedures. Only approved active substances may be used - and only by qualified personnel. Old, particularly problematic substances such as DDT have been banned for decades.
Risks - but also risk reduction
There are risks for non-target organisms, soil and water, but they are minimized through regulations: Minimum distances from bodies of water, smallest possible amounts of active ingredient, use only under certain weather conditions. The risk-benefit assessment is prescribed by law.
Perception vs. reality
Many citizens consider PPPs in forests to be more dangerous than the scientific risk assessment suggests. This is also due to the fact that information from authorities and experts is often difficult to access or formulated too technically - a key problem that RiKA was able to identify.