BASF Report 2021 Management’s Report – Product Stewardship for Crop Protection Products and Seeds 124 Product Stewardship for Crop Protection Products Crop protection We also work closely together with associations such as CropLife and Seeds International and CropLife Europe to promote the safe and proper GRI 102, 103, 416, 417 BASF adheres to the International Code of Conduct issued by the use of crop protection products. For example, we support steward- SUPPLIERS BASF CUSTOMERS World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture ship initiatives of both associations and various programs on the Organization (FAO) for the distribution of crop protection products. proper disposal and recycling of product containers. Technological Crop protection products and seeds are highly regulated at These are only marketed once they have been approved by the rele- innovations developed together with industry partners such as the national and international level, which brings with it strict vant authorities. We no longer sell WHO Class 1A or 1B products easyconnect closed transfer system in Europe or the Wisdom sys- requirements for registering and re-registering active ingre- (high acute oral and dermal toxicity). Depending on availability, we tem in South America also help to make using crop protection dients and crop systems. Regulatory approval is only granted offer our customers alternatives. products easier and safer. when extensive documentation can be provided showing that our products are safe for people, animals and the environ- All of BASF’s crop protection products can be used safely under ment when used in the manner intended. local farming conditions if the information and directions on the label Seeds are followed. Customers can contact us directly if they have any At a glance questions, complaints or issues, for example, by calling the tele- BASF is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship, a global phone number printed on product labels, using the contact forms industry initiative for seeds. This initiative promotes the adoption of ▪ High regulatory requirements and safety standards for crop on our websites or by approaching our sales employees directly. We quality management systems for seeds and product stewardship protection products and seeds record all products incidents relating to health or the environment programs covering the entire life cycle. It also has independent ▪ Wide range of training on the safe and proper handling of our that come to our attention in a global database. If necessary, we ETS-certified auditors verify members’ compliance with its guide- products take appropriate measures on the basis of this information, such as lines. In 2021, BASF successfully passed ETS audits in the areas of updating the instructions for use on the product label to minimize laboratory operations, contained biotech plants, general steward- preventable incidents in the future. We communicate changes to ship, incident response management and product handling at our Potential risks are assessed and minimized throughout the research, instructions for use and general recommendations on the safe use Ghent and Astene sites in Belgium. development and registration process, and on an ongoing basis of our products through channels such as our Farmer Field School For more information on our Agricultural Solutions segment, see page 88 onward following market registration. We regularly perform a large number initiatives in Asia and in training programs such as the On Target For more information on biodiversity, see page 138 onward of scientific studies and tests to ensure that, as far as possible, our Application Academy in the United States. For more information on risks from litigation and claims, see the Notes to the Consolidated Financial registration dossiers address all questions on potential environ- Statements on page 262 mental and health effects. One of the ways we meet our commitment to product stewardship is by offering a wide range of courses and training on the safe We adapt our portfolio to the specific requirements of regional mar- storage and safe use of our products. In India, for example, BASF kets as crops, soils, climate conditions, plant diseases and farming launched the Suraksha Hamesha program. Suraksha Hamesha practices vary around the world. Consequently, product approvals means “safety all the time.” The program creates a platform for edu- differ from country to country. cating farmers and agricultural workers about the nine steps of responsible use of crop protection products and personal protec- tion. Through Suraksha Hamesha, BASF has engaged with over 162,600 agricultural workers and around 33,200 users across India since 2016. BASF also involves government agencies and the cen- tral government’s farm extension teams in these meetings to support and promote farm safety.