The recent decrease in the use of plant protection products in greenhouse horticulture reflects a significant shift in the industry. From 2012 to 2016, active substance usage dropped from nearly 180,000 kg to about 130,000 kg. Despite this reduction, growers are facing rising costs due to the increased development expenses of new products, driven by stringent compliance and risk assessment requirements.
The Growing Importance of Substance Usage Registration
Amidst this backdrop, the use of chemical crop protection products is increasingly being restricted. This trend is influenced by pressures from governments and civil society organizations, concerned about the impact on groundwater quality, biodiversity, and public health. Consequently, there's a heightened need for thorough registration of these products throughout the supply chain, a responsibility that falls on the growers.
Product labels, offering vital usage instructions, are becoming more detailed and demanding. A prime example is the Pirimor lice pesticide, which has seen six different user guides since 2016. Growers are often left to navigate through varying instructions across product batches, making it challenging to apply the correct dosages and comply with safety guidelines.
ERP Software as a Solution for Plant Protection Product Management
Recording the usage of plant protection products might seem tedious, but with the appropriate tools, this task can be transformed into a valuable and efficient process. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software stands out as a robust solution for this purpose. It aids not just in stock tracking but also offers numerous benefits:
- Detailed insights into application times, conditions, and dosages.
- Analysis of product efficacy to refine future applications.
- Access to treatment history for specific lots.
- Simplification of treatment planning with customizable templates.
- Forecasting for future product needs.
- Automatic cost calculations including labor and product usage.
- Ensured accountability to customers, inspectors, and others.
The scope of ERP software extends beyond mere record-keeping. For instance, Agriware 365 Analytics can be used for in-depth product analysis, enhancing product selection. Mobile devices can simplify observations and inspections, and the integration of photos can further aid in crop treatment planning and error identification. Ultimately, efficient crop protection registration serves not just as a decision-making tool but also as a means to streamline operations, saving time and cost
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