Biodiversity-Strategy-January-2023

34 Pesticides are chemicals that may be used to control organisms such as fungi, bacteria, insects, plant diseases or weeds, among others. Pesticides can be categorised into insecticides and herbicides, which are specifically used to target and control certain species. Their use has been a longstanding option used by public bodies and many landowners. However, in recent times, Council has begun to review its use and the impacts pesticides have on our environment. The Council currently uses glyphosate-based herbicides for the targeted control of weeds in public areas, such as streets, paths and cemeteries. Other types of herbicide are used for the control of moss on play parks and weeds on sports pitches. The Council has identified the need for action on protecting our soils, insects and wider biodiversity through our progress in action for pollinators. Whilst the desire and need is clear to reduce pesticide use (where possible) on Council managed estate, the challenge is to find alternative ways of managing weed control successfully and viably. Many alternative treatments for weed control are available. Research has shown only some alternatives may provide acceptable results in line with current service levels. A switch to any of these may incur significant additional costs, not only in the purchase of equipment and additional fuel costs, but also through human resources, as some applications require significant additional time. The Council is currently collating data to measure the reduction of pesticide use across our estate. Research is ongoing as we search for the best measures to reduce pesticide use. We have identified the need to continue to control weeds in key priority areas, but we also recognise the importance of developing an Integrated Pesticide Control Management Plan (IPCMP). The IPCMP, in combination with GIS mapping, will identify areas that need to be managed sensitively. It will also allow us to identify opportunity areas for a changed approach (such as in our Green Flag Parks, Grange Park and Broadmeadow, where no chemicals are used), select locations where a change in approach can be trialled, and identify problem areas where weed control is challenging. The IPCMP will also address the need to design out weed control through appropriate infrastructure design and manage the public’s perception of ‘well kept’ areas, versus the need to leave areas wild for the benefit of pollinators and biodiversity. Indeed, changing the perception of what ‘well kept’ is, will be a key outcome from the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. Control of Invasive Alien Species Where invasive alien species are identified for management, pesticides (likely glyphosate based) may still be required. A treatment plan will be developed for each case identified. The application of glyphosate pesticides on invasive species will be targeted and managed to avoid cross contamination on other vegetation and surfaces. Pesticide-free Zone Managed for Wildlife Pesticide-free Zone section from the All Ireland Pollinator Plan 2021- 2025 9.3 Theme 3: Pesticide Reduction