According to Pieter Van Oost of Boerenbond, such a system can make a big difference. “The polluted water is collected and goes via a cistern to a phytotank, where micro-organisms break down the substances. In this way we can control up to 90 percent of the pollution.”
However, filling and rinsing of sprayers is still often done in the yard or in the field. This leads to so-called point pollution. “It was long thought that drift – what blows away during spraying – was the biggest problem, but that is only 5 percent,” says Van Oost. “Up to 90 percent of pollution occurs in one place, for example through spills during filling or cleaning.”
Clear guidelines have recently been introduced for farmers who want to build such an installation. There is no obligation for the time being, but according to the Farmers’ Union, it appears that it is coming. “I expect that the government will push for mandatory filling and rinsing locations in the future, individually or collectively,” says Van Oost.
Minister Brouns’ drinking water plan should contribute to better water quality in Flanders by limiting pollution at the source.
