IPM IN PROTECTED CROPS - CONCERNS, CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

The Dutch government has a coherent, long-term policy regarding attainment of a sustainable development affecting agriculture and horticulture, the requirements of which are very strict and will be difficult to satisfy. The growers of protected crops try to meet these requirements by developing so-called closed growing systems. Two other approaches in the policy are a substantial reduction of the volume of pesticides used and a very critical evaluation of the pesticides permitted. In this governmental policy, Integrated Pest Management has shown prospects in horticulture; it will play a very important role in the near future but is now considered as part of the broader concept of Integrated Production Systems. The glasshouse industry is very actively developing its own strategy to satisfy government targets and market demands for high-quality products produced by environmentally safe methods. The vegetable auctions have developed a policy of environmentally conscious production which should put the vegetable industry into a strong marketing position for its produce.