3.4.3 Striving for ‘sustainable intensification’

This manual focuses on appropriate pesticide use for sustained maximisation of yields, within a GAP/IPM context that might be used in the farm, or in storage of bulk cocoa. 

IPM - previously perceived by some as a nicety - has become a necessity: no longer can it mean “Incredibly Popular Mantra”. It is a rigorous, multi-disciplinary approach for crop production and serious political pressure is now applied for its implementation. 

Over the coming decade, there will be an increasing demand for new, but practical and effective, IPM techniques for growers of cocoa and other crops.

The long-standing debate on pesticide-related issues shows no sign of diminishing, matched only by the need for increased production of all foods, including cocoa, but must also be seen within broader contexts including habitat loss and climate change.