Improvements of pesticide handling in greenhouse situations

The use of pesticides in greenhouses has often been regarded, formally at least, as if the greenhouse was a closed system, isolated from surrounding soil, air, and water. Recently, several pesticide residues studies in watercourses have been conducted, showing pollution that could be related to greenhouse production. In a previous project, several potential point sources were identified. The objective of this project was to transform identified shortcomings within the field of point sources, into improvements; to reduce the risk of accidents and minimize the consequences. A filling/mixing/cleaning station was developed as a ‘mock-up’ and tested by growers and advisers, and after that, further improved. An important part of the design was to facilitate the handling work and, in this way, reduce the temptation to handle pesticides at inexpedient places. A promising idea from users themselves is also described; an attachment to standard sprayer tanks, to minimize spilling