Brazil Implements New Regulations for Controlling the Use of Thiamethoxam Pesticides - Sugarcane Fields Suggested to Adopt Drip Irrigation Application

In a recent development, the Brazilian Environmental Protection Agency, Ibama, has introduced new regulations to adjust the usage of pesticides containing the active ingredient thiamethoxam. While these regulations do not completely ban the use of such pesticides, they prohibit imprecise large-scale spraying using airplanes or tractors on various crops due to the potential drift that can negatively impact bees and other pollinating insects.

New Regulations and Recommendations:

According to Ibama, for specific crops like sugarcane, it is recommended to employ precise pesticide application methods such as drip irrigation to minimize the risk of drift. Agricultural experts suggest that drip irrigation enables the safe and efficient application of pesticides on sugarcane crops, effectively controlling major pests such as spittlebugs (Mahanarva fimbriolata), termites (Heterotermes tenuis), sugarcane borers (Diatraea saccharalis), and sugarcane weevils (Sphenophorus levis) while minimizing the impact on crops.

The new regulations state that thiamethoxam pesticides should no longer be used for chemical treatment of sugarcane propagation materials. However, after sugarcane harvest, the pesticides can still be applied to the soil through drip irrigation systems. To avoid affecting pollinating insects, it is advised to maintain a 35-50 day interval between the first drip irrigation and the subsequent application.

Expanded Usage and Benefits:

Furthermore, the new regulations allow for the use of thiamethoxam pesticides directly applied to the soil or foliage on crops such as corn, wheat, soybeans, and sugarcane, as well as for seed treatment. Specific usage conditions, including dosage and expiration dates, will be further clarified.

Experts highlight that employing precise application methods like drip irrigation not only enhances pest control but also ensures operational safety and reduces labor input. Compared to spraying operations, drip irrigation eliminates potential environmental and personnel hazards associated with spray drift, making it an environmentally friendly and economically practical technique.

Brazil's new regulations governing the usage of thiamethoxam pesticides aim to strike a balance between pest control and environmental protection, particularly for crops like sugarcane. By recommending the adoption of drip irrigation for precise pesticide application, the regulations prioritize the safety of pollinators and promote sustainable and efficient farming practices. These measures underscore Brazil's commitment to safeguarding its ecosystems and ensuring the long-term viability of its agricultural sector.