International programme line-up for BCPC Congress

Date:2013/7/3

This year’s BCPC Congress programme will offer an array of influential, international speakers who will explore the effects of a challenging regulatory environment on the status of, and future prospects for, the crop protection industry. The event, takes place on 1-2 October 2013 at the Hilton Metropole Hotel, Brighton, Sussex, UK.

“We are delighted to have two excellent keynote speakers for the Plenary Session; Gordon Rennick, from the Pesticide Registration and Control Division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in Ireland, and Prof. Lorraine Maltby, from the University of Sheffield,” says Dr. Colin Ruscoe, chairman, BCPC. “Gordon is renowned for giving lively and perceptive presentations. His sound understanding of the impact of EU regulations on agriculture and the food chain – a breadth of perspective we rarely hear – will help clarify this complex area.”

Lorraine Maltby, Professor of Environmental Biology, known for her research into ecosystems and how they are affected by human inputs and activities, is a recognised expert in the field. “Prof. Maltby’s research is used to inform environmental decision-making and to influence environmental policy, and her perspectives on environmental protection and regulation will be an important element of the programme,” says Dr Ruscoe.

As well as key speakers from UK-based organisations there will be presentations from scientists and regulatory authority experts from Switzerland, The Netherlands, Slovenia, Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic. They will cover a range of topical issues including: the science and regulation of neonicotinoids, pollinators and endocrine disruptors – and the impact of this on agribusiness. Member state and industry views on EC1107/2009 – including the threat to minor crops and specialty crop protection, the status of several stewardship schemes and two panel discussion sessions.

The price of registration for the Congress is £650 + VAT, which includes a 2-day conference pass, exhibition entry, networking opportunities including an evening drinks reception with an address by Professor Joyce Tait, University of Edinburgh, on public perception of risk and its effects on policy.

The full congress programme and list of confirmed speakers; how to register as a delegate, sponsor or exhibitor can be found on the Congress website at: www.bcpccongress.org or email: TSGE Forum at enquiries@tsgeforum.com.