What are pesticides and biocides?

Pesticides and biocides are chemicals or organisms used to control pests such as harmful or unwanted animals, plants, fungi, viruses or bacteria which cause damage. Pesticides and biocides include:

fungicides
insecticides
herbicides
plant growth regulators
rodenticides (rat and mouse poisons)
animal and bird repellents
mole control products
wood and masonry preservatives
disinfectants
human and veterinary medicines
anti-fouling products
molluscicides (snail and slug pellets)
algaecides
earth worm control agents.

Pesticides and biocides can cause significant water pollution and land contamination if there is an accident or they are not used in a responsible way. If they enter surface water or groundwater, even in very small amounts, they can have devastating effects. Pesticides and biocides can harm human health if you do not store and use them properly.

Businesses that use pesticides and biocides include those involved in:

agriculture - arable, vegetable and fruit growing, pasture, livestock and poultry
aquaculture - fish and shellfish farming (veterinary medicine)
forestry and woodland
horticulture
wood and masonry preservation
managing invasive species and removing bracken
pest control
weed control, eg on pavements, industrial complexes and alongside roads and railways
marine anti-fouling paints and coatings
gardening and landscaping
managing parks and golf courses (amenity sector)
food storage and preparation
healthcare
care of domestic pets.