Might be of interests to anyone working on agrochemical issues/projects!

[Calling all innovators!] Here’s your chance to win the Bernard Blum Award - specially curated for innovative biocontrol products. ???

? The Bernard Blum Award by IBMA is given to innovative biocontrol products that have a high impact on the management of pests or diseases while having a low impact on human health and the environment.

? The jury will focus on the following criteria:

? Scientific Foundation and Merit
? Degree of Innovation
? Contribution to Sustainable Agriculture
? Commercial Opportunity

? Submit your innovations by 31 May 2025!

What is your view on the intersection between sustainable pesticide management and fulfilment of human rights? Explore their close linkages in this webinar, co-organized by OHCHR, FAO, the Special Procedures of the UN Human Rights Council and GEN.

The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) approach plays a key role in addressing plastics pollution. Exploring standards or even mandatory EPR measures for empty containers, unwanted pesticides, and other agricultural plastics, can bring us closer to the ultimate goal of phasing out or improving the management of plastics.

Have you worked on EPR initiatives? What are the most significant enablers in the implementation of EPR solutions?

Resources to dive deeper:
? How to Implement EPR - A guide for governments and businesses https://www.greenpolicyplatform.org/research/how-implement-extended-pro…
? Case example, EPR in agriculture in Canada https://cleanfarms.ca/a-snapshot-of-epr-obligations-on-ag-plastics/

Credit image: FAO

Financial institutions have the opportunity to engage in meaningful change and ensure their contributions to pollution reduction and prevention are impactful and lasting. Do you agree?

Pollution risks in the agriculture sector span a wide range of environmental and social issues, including:
❌ Regulatory risks: Growing evidence of the health and ecosystem effects of certain chemicals can generate significant liability risks, potentially leading to restrictions.
❌ Shifting consumer preferences: The rise in demand for organic food reflects a growing consumer focus on health and quality.
❌ Food production challenges: Soil pollution from industrial agriculture reduces crop yields and threatens food safety by allowing contaminants to accumulate in crops.
❌ Human health risks: Compromised air quality and other health hazards linked to harmful agricultural practices.
❌ And many more, highlighting the urgency for banks to drive a transition towards a sustainable, resilient, and less polluting agricultural sector.

So, what opportunities exist for banks?
✅ Innovating sustainable farming practices,
✅ Fostering technology adoption for sustainable agriculture,
✅ Promoting responsible chemicals management,
✅ Strengthening alternatives such as biopesticides and organic fertilisers,
✅And more... if you are an investor or represent a financial institution working in the agriculture sector, share your thoughts and solutions!

At FARM, we are building an investment framework to detoxify the agriculture sector by eliminating the use of harmful inputs in food production systems. Let’s discuss and find a way to collaborate.