This prestigious event in agriculture’s calendar addresses the regulatory aspects of crop production and has a history running back 70 years. This year’s Congress focuses on shaping the future of crop protection.
Jointly organised by BCPC in association with TSG Forum, the Congress delivers a programme of engaging and relevant presentations from influential industry and government representatives, academics, and leading consultants. As well as experts from BCPC and NIAB, the Congress sees speakers from diverse organisations such as the National Farmers Union (NFU), University of Reading, Defra and many more.
The Congress runs across two days with the varied programme including presentations, interactive workshops, and discussions. There is the opportunity to engage with expert speakers and other Congress delegates, with the exhibition area providing a lively and interesting networking space for all delegates.
BCPC General Manager, Julian Westaway, explains what attendees can expect at this year’s BCPC Congress: “The first morning plenary sessions focus on the issue of food security and securing resilient, sustainable food chains, with sessions from Professor Ian Givens (University of Reading), Dr Séan Rickard (independent consultant), Sainsbury’s and Corteva. The programme then splits into two separate streams. Stream A focusing on Regulatory Affairs - covering both chemical and non-chemical means of plant protection. Meanwhile Stream B looks at practical experiences and opportunities of new approaches to crop protection.
“We reconvene on day two and look at topics including future land use and the adoption of IPM (Integrated Pest Management). The programme then goes on to consider pesticides in water, the influence of farmer generated data, and the future drivers in the crop protection market. The conference will finish with the afternoon workshop session from HSE Chemical Regulations Division – now a regular feature of the Congress.
“The BCPC Congress is the jewel in the crown of BCPC events and we can’t wait to welcome attendees to Harrogate again in November,” finished Mr Westaway.