BUsinEss sFETRAATURETEgy
Facing up to
the Greens
Agrochemicals have been the target of fierce campaigning
by Green groups for several years, but the industry is slow to
counter the often hysterical accusations made against it.
David Bowe offers some useful pointers on how to fight back
During my 15 years in the European Parliament I Emotional versus rational The continued publication of ‘pseudo scientific’
saw a number of technical, legislative measures The process of moving an issue from a rational, findings by non-mainstream, so-called ‘scientific’
move from being discussions of limited interest to technical discussion into an unbalanced emotive researchers that totally ignore the positive
the general public to becoming emotional, highly debate is usually fuelled by publicity campaigns, benefits of chemicals (economic and social) to
political debates. Fifteen years ago they centred which rely on a lack of reliable or credible data on society, but that concentrate on the unnaturalness
on waste issues, landfill, incinerators and the the substances in question. This process began at or weirdness of the effects of these chemicals
like. Then 10 years ago it was biotech crops and least two years ago with green groups focusing on and the availability of more ‘natural’ or so-called
patenting of genes. Now it seems that chemicals chemicals. ‘safer’ alternatives, creates feelings of alienation
have become an emotive issue. Are emotional and detachment from these substances.
attitudes taking over the decision making from All too often, initiatives on behalf of
rational scientific arguments? I don’t think they campaigning groups to supply the press with Green campaigners have long ago realised that to
should and I don't think they will. That is why exaggerated reports of the possible dangers win an argument in a political arena and achieve
I have welcomed the debate on the REACH of certain chemicals, linking these chemicals legislative change they must shift the basis of the
legislation. It must be seen as an opportunity not with unexplained occurrences of cancers, discussion from being a scientific, rational one to
a threat. tumours or increasing allergic reactions among an unbalanced, emotional one.
the population, are launched. This fills the
Existing legislation on chemicals has been too ‘information gap’ with exciting or scary stories Working together in coalition, through
complicated and too lengthy and has not worked that make good headlines in the media, which organisations like the ‘Green 10 Coalition’ in
well. The time taken to complete assessments are perceived as factual by the general public, and Brussels, they can broadcast their message widely
plays into the hands of those who have already create attitudes of concern and worry among the across the EU, through partner organisations
made up their minds. Simplistic ‘green’ media public. Anyone who reads their local or national like the EEB, (European Environmental Bureau),
campaigns have replaced scientific facts. press can find examples of this. which has over 140 member organisations in 31
www.agrowmag.com • May 2007 31
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