Sustainable Tomatoes

SUSTAINABLETOMATOESGOOD AGRICULTURALPRACTICE GUIDELINES

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INTRODUCTION 1

SOIL HEALTH 2

SOIL LOSS 4

NUTRIENTS 6

PEST MANAGEMENT 8

BIODIVERSITY 12

PRODUCT VALUE 14

ENERGY 16

WATER 18

SOCIAL AND HUMAN CAPITAL 20

LOCAL ECONOMY 22

GLOSSARY OF TERMS 24

FURTHER READING 25

CONTENTS

Note: This document has been discussed with the members of the Unilever Sustainable Agriculture Advisory Board (SAAB). The SAAB is a groupof individuals, specialists in agricultural practices or representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs), who have expertise in differentaspects of sustainability. They have agreed to critically assist Unilever in the evolution of Sustainable Agriculture Indicators and good practices fora range of raw material crops. The contents of this document and the choices made therein are, however, the responsibility of Unilever only.

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UNILEVER GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES TOMATOES 1

INTRODUCTION

This guide has been developed under the Unilever SustainableAgriculture Initiative to support sustainable management practices forthe production of processing tomatoes.

Ten indicators of sustainability have beenidentified:

1. Soil Health2. Soil Loss3. Nutrients4. Pest Management5. Biodiversity6. Product Value7. Energy8. Water9. Social and Human Capital10. Local Economy

For each indicator specific goodagricultural practices are described, which are either already in place or will be implemented in the near future. In addition, potential areas forimprovement are listed, which will require further investigation.

The development of these goodagricultural practice guidelines has beenbased upon a thorough evaluation of

potential agronomic practices andassociated inputs and follows theprinciples of Integrated FarmManagement (IFM). These guidelines have been produced in consultation with relevant scientists and specialists,including members of a UnileverSustainable Agriculture Advisory Board (SAAB).

This guide is primarily intended for use by the management teams of Unilevertomato processing operations and forcommunication with other tomatoprocessors and tomato product suppliers.A complementary guide for agronomistsand farmers growing tomatoes should be developed for each individual region in close consultation with the farming community.

We value our relationships with growers,their knowledge base and capacity toinnovate, which are all key to a successfuldevelopment and implementation of the

good agricultural practice guidelines. These guidelines are supported by otherdocuments relating to the managementsystem which cover the full tomato lifecycle from detailed agronomy aimed attomato processors, company agronomistsand growers, to the finished product. Thisdocument forms the basis for continuousimprovement and development of goodagricultural practices. These includeaspects of product safety and quality aswell as the environmental impact andsustainability of the entire agriculturalproduction process.

Contributions to the continuousimprovement of these guidelines are welcome and may be sent to:

[email protected]

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SOIL HEALTH

Soil is fundamental to agriculture. A rich soil ecosystemimproves performance of crops and livestock. Sustainableagriculture practices can improve the quality of the soil’s ecosystem.

2 UNILEVER GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES TOMATOES

Soil health has been defined as ‘thecapacity of a specific kind of soil tofunction, within natural or managedecosystem boundaries, to sustain plantand animal productivity, maintain orenhance water and air quality, andsupport human health and habitation’.

Soil organic matter is important formaintaining soil health and soil structure,reducing soil loss and increasing nutrientand water use efficiency. It also providesa carbon (energy) source for soil micro-organisms. Organic matter levels shouldbe maintained at, or improved to, asatisfactory equilibrium level for theparticular soil type. The organic matterwill derive from manures and compost,and incorporation of crop residues and/orcover crops in the crop rotation. Longterm deterioration in soil structure andfertility may result from soil compaction,particularly under mechanisation.Deterioration in soil fertility may resultfrom changes in soil structure, soil pHand soil nutrient status, or from build-up of salinity, a possible side effect of irrigation.

Various soil fauna species are excellentindicators of soil health. Earthworms areimportant in maintaining soil structure,aeration, nutrient cycling, drainage and in breaking down organic matter forincorporation into the soil profile.Earthworms also stimulate microbialactivity, mix and aggregate soil, increaseinfiltration rates and water-holdingcapacities. Carabid beetles are intra- and supra-soil dwellers and are importantpredators of insect pests. Soil micro-organisms (bacteria, fungi, protozoa) are also important in the context of soil health as indicators of the innatefertility of the soil and its suitability forgrowing tomatoes.

Checking the earthworm population (top andabove right). Large earthworm populationshelp to maintain soil structure and aeration,nutrient cycling and drainage, as well asbreaking down organic matter. Other localfauna species, such as carabid beetles, areuseful indicators too.

Monitoring the moisture content (right), andlevels of soil compaction (left) also indicatesthe health and resilience of the soil. InAustralia tomato growers face not onlypersistent drought but salinity (above left) as water tables rise due to changes incatchment water balance.



GOOD PRACTICE

Soil Type

● Avoid light, sandy and heavy clay soils

● Promote appropriate tillage proceduresto encourage root growth whenseverely restricted

Organic Matter (OM)

● Conduct regular field soil testing fororganic matter – every four years as a minimum

● Advise growers to improve or compensateorganic matter losses in the rotationthrough:

– Encouraging the use of organicfertilisers (manure, compost) at theappropriate time in the rotation, withmanagement practices aimed atminimising nitrogen leaching losses

– Incorporating previous crop residue(e.g. tomato trash, cereal straw) intosoil and promote practices to incorporateresidues into the soil profile

– Encouraging improved crop rotationstrategies and green manuring throughintroduction of cover crops beforeand/or following the tomato crop

● Promote appropriate soil cultivationtechniques to conserve soil health, build organic matter and reduce tillage-induced gaseous losses to the atmosphere

Crop Rotation

● For an optimal crop rotation, thefollowing points need to be considered:

– Selection of crops that provide aneconomic return

– Consideration of all crop managementfactors. For example, one crop mayprovide a lower direct return per unit ofarea than the alternate crop, but mayalso lower management costs for thealternate crop (e.g. by reducing weedpressure, and thus avoiding tillageand/or application of herbicides), withan overall net increase in profit

– Keep tillage intensive crops in therotation to a minimum

– Avoid planting other solanaceouscrops such as potato, peppers andeggplant in a rotation with tomatoes

– The need for crop-specific equipment

Soil pH

● Tomatoes require a pH between 5.0and 6.5 for good sustainable growth:

– If soils are too acidic (pH below 5)advise on using good quality limingmaterial where available. Recommendedrates should be obtained from localresearch or extension services

– Dissuade growers from plantingtomato crops on fields with pH above7.5 as this significantly increasesmineral deficiencies (such as zinc)

Soil Compaction

● Stipulate regular visual, qualitative soilstructure assessments through trainingseminars for growers to alleviate soilcompaction. Field compaction checkscan be made using a simplepenetrometer or solid metal probe

● Avoid soil compaction through:

– Minimising the number of in-fieldmachine passes and using widemachinery where possible to minimisethe impact of a single operation

– Ensuring vehicle traffic and tillageoperations are conducted when the soilis at appropriate moisture content.Avoid traffic when the field is too moist

– Ensuring land is adequately drained

– Using sub-soiling or deep ripping inappropriate conditions wherecompaction appears to be a problem

– Using tracked vehicles or low groundpressure tyres. Adjust tyre pressures forall field operations to suit field conditions

– Advise on reducing longer-termdegradation by providing well-formed,well-drained and stable tracks androads (grass or tarmac)

Soil Fauna

● Earthworm activity (presence andnumbers) should be monitored as anindicator of soil health

● Regular soil testing for presence of soilborne diseases (i.e. root-knotnematode) combined with advice oncorrective measures when necessary

● Retain crop residues in the field

● Where available, use organic fertilisersand soil improvers

● Use pest action thresholds to reducenumber of pesticide sprays

● Avoid the use of broad-spectruminsecticides and soil fumigantswherever possible

● Use cultural methods of pest and weedcontrol wherever possible

Salinity

● Regularly monitor irrigation waterquality for sodium, magnesium andchloride levels

● Monitor ground water table depth andquality in situations where risingground water tables have the potentialto move salt from depth into the croproot zone of the soil

● Minimise losses of water below thecrop root zone where ground watertables are rising and have the potentialto increase soil salinity

POTENTIAL AREAS FORIMPROVEMENT

● Support growers to establishappropriate and viable crop rotations

● Review current field cultivation strategieswith the aim of reducing further thenumber of machinery passes

● Further research on:

– The correlation between organiccarbon levels and other soil qualityparameters like microbial activity andearthworm biomass, and between OMand yield for local soils and conditions

– The influence of vegetation cover,biomass return, pesticide and fertiliseruse on soil health

– The perceived link between retainingtomato vines in the field after harvestand subsequent soil borne diseases and pests


SOIL LOSS


Erosion by wind and water can lead to the loss of valuable topsoil, thereby reducing the main asset of the agricultural system.Sustainable practices can reduce soil erosion.

Soils form over very long periods of timeas a result of weathering, reworking andreorganisation of the upper layers of theearth’s crust. Soil erosion is a naturalprocess, but agricultural activity, soil type,slope, crop, wind and amount or intensity of rainfall can all affect theamount of soil lost. Erosion removestopsoil, reduces levels of soil organicmatter and nutrients, and contributes tothe breakdown of soil structure, creatinga less favourable environment for plantgrowth. In soils that have restrictions toroot growth, erosion decreases rootingdepths, which in turn decreases theamount of water, air, and nutrientsavailable to plant roots. Erosion removessurface soil, which often has the highestbiological activity and greatest amount ofsoil organic matter. It also results in lossof nutrients which once removed are nolonger available to support plant growthon site. Soil removed by water erosionoften ends up in streams and rivers,which may also be detrimental to thehealth of aquatic ecosystems.

Soil erosion in tomato growing areas –consisting of both water erosion andwind erosion – is a factor not only onlight soils on sloping land but also onsome land previously classified in ‘lowrisk’ erosion categories. There is a linearrelationship between the relative amountof exposed soil and the soil lost duringrainfall or over a season. Soil coverindex (the average soil cover over the life of the crop including any fallowperiod before plants start to grow) istherefore an extremely useful indicator of erosion potential.

Soil loss during mechanical harvestingoperations not only removes fertile soil,but also presents a problem duringprocessing and is an undesirable wastestream for tomato factories. Minimumtillage systems can, where appropriate,contribute to erosion prevention.

The effective prevention of soil loss dependson careful attention to the particularcharacteristics of a field, or areas within a field.Two examples here from Brazil: the slopingground has been terraced to help avoiderosion (top). A ‘minimum tillage’ approach(above) where only the surface layers of soil are prepared for planting thefollowing crop, is an important contribution in helping to stem soil erosion by wind andrain. Additionally, a reduced number ofmachine passes over a field is also helpful inpreventing the loss of fertile topsoil.



GOOD PRACTICE

Water Erosion

● Avoid cultivating steeply sloping fields

● On sloping fields follow contours with operations for soil preparationwhere possible

● Encourage construction of contourbanks to arrest run-off

Wind Erosion

● Light soils are more vulnerable to winderosion and should be permanentlycovered or left rough after ploughingwherever possible

● Tree shelter belts and field marginsshould be constructed to protect highlyvulnerable fields

Soil Loss During Harvesting

● Advise growers on proper tomato bedpreparation, cultivation during theseason and harvest techniques tominimise soil removal

Soil Cover

● Keep the soil covered as long aspossible using an economically viablecrop rotation

● Develop management systems toachieve a greater crop cover as early aspossible in the life of the crop

● Avoid dusty pathways through controlof soil moisture levels

Minimum Tillage Systems

● Promote minimum tillage systems inappropriate conditions to help preventerosion and to preserve soil structure

● Use suitable mulches if available


● Increase awareness with the farmingcommunity of how to identify soilerosion and its causes (i.e. poorstructure, bare soils, long slopes)

● Further work on soil erosion risk basedon soil type, slope, rainfall sequence,and irrigation activities to identify scopeof any field problem, and possible linkswith soil compaction risks

● Review cultural practices with growersto reduce soil erosion and amounts ofsoil delivered to the processing plant

● Investigate the effect of currentnitrogen and phosphorous fertilisationpractices on minimum tillage systems

● Identify potential for practices toincrease soil cover (and thereforereduce water erosion) including:

– forage crops in the rotation or aspermanent cover

– winter cover crops

– protecting the surface with crop residue

– improving aggregate stabilityAn example of bad soil erosion on sloping land(top) as a result of poor management. Leavingthe soil bare in this way encourages loss oftopsoil, including nutrients and water.

In Australia most tomato farms are onrelatively flat landscapes so erosion from run-off surface water is minimal, although dust storms (middle) can be equallydevastating to soil quality. The best way tocounter wind erosion is by planting covercrops, or on heavier soils the ground can beleft rough after ploughing. Shelter belts oftrees are also beneficial.

Keeping fields covered with other cropsthroughout the rotation – in this case (above)corn in California – is crucial in helping toprevent soil loss. Cover crops which growquickly and have extensive root systems arethe best way of binding the soil betweentomato crops.


NUTRIENTS

Crops need a balance of nutrients. Some, such as nitrogen, can be created locally. Others must be imported. Nutrients are lost through cropping, erosion and emissions to air.Sustainable practices can enhance locally produced nutrientsand reduce losses.

Nutrient inputs are vital for mostagricultural systems. Rock weathering and nitrogen fixation by legumes andfree-living bacteria rarely provide enoughto compensate fully for the amounts ofnutrients removed by crops, even inmixed farming systems. Consequently,agricultural systems depend on use offertilisers on most soils.

Sustainable farming systems shouldmaximise the nutrients that are recycledwithin the system and thereby minimisethe quantities of imported nutrients thatare necessary. Ideally, total nutrient inputs(including soil mineralisation) should besimilar to nutrients exported in theharvested product plus that stored inground vegetation if the soil fertilitystatus is close to optimum (around 90%of maximum yield). However if currentsoil fertility is low, potential crop yieldmay also be limited. Nutrient input willneed to be greater than nutrient exportin order to build soil fertility and optimisecrop yields. If soil fertility is significantlygreater than optimum, nutrient input canbe reduced or eliminated for a period oftime, in effect mining the soil resourceuntil soil fertility falls closer to optimumlevels, at which time nutrient inputs mayneed to be increased. The ratio ofnutrient exports to inputs (nutrientbalance) should be carefully balancedaccording to factors such as current soilfertility. Macro-nutrients – includingnitrogen, phosphorous and potassium –are required for tomato production andwould normally be applied as bothmaintenance dressings for the benefit ofthe whole rotation, and specific targetedapplications to stimulate rootdevelopment, crop growth, yield andquality. Micro-nutrients are required onlyin small amounts, but are essential forhealthy crop growth. Deficiencies canlead to retarded growth, diseasesymptoms and quality defects. High


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concentrations of certain elements in thesoil may cause phytotoxic effects.

Nitrate and phosphate losses bysurface run-off, soil erosion and toground water must be avoided.Phosphate pollution can lead to theeutrophication of inland water bodies.Nitrate pollution causes off-shoreeutrophication and impacts on groundwater systems used for human andlivestock consumption (nitrate toxicity).

If inputs can be maintained at a levelclose to exports, losses to water shouldnot be a severe problem.

Providing a judicious balance of nutrients andwater to tomato fields can be achieved bystate-of-the-art drip irrigation systems.Nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium are theprinciple inputs that are mixed with water. This system is often referred to as ‘fertigation’.The aim is to maintain levels of inputsequivalent to levels of exports in the crop, and so prevent losses to water both locally and in the wider catchment.



GOOD PRACTICE

Nutrient Inputs

● Select and apply nitrogen, phosphorousand potassium based on these criteria:

– Carry out soil tests before applicationto determine nitrogen, phosphorousand potassium levels and comparethese levels to officially documented,optimum target values based on soiltype and timing of application

– Choose fertiliser according toprevious cropping, rainfall, and soilphysical and chemical characteristics

– When selecting a fertiliser considerthe principles of ‘CRAFT’: Choice ofproduct, Rate of Application,Application method, Frequency andTiming of applications

● Growers need to take advice from localresearch centres or soil test laboratorieson optimal micro-nutrient balances

● Ensure fertiliser application equipmentis regularly calibrated and maintained

● All applications of soil and foliarfertilisers and organic manure shouldbe recorded and justified to field staff

Ratio of Exports to Inputs (NutrientBalance) and Nutrient Efficiency

● In the case of nitrogen applications,analyse the soil (0 to 20cm and 20 to60cm) for level of available mineralnitrogen before planting and duringcrop growth. Wherever possible, splitthe total amount of required nitrogenby applying at various stages in thecropping cycle based on crop needs

● Irrigate tomatoes, wherever possiblesoon after fertiliser applications, toimprove the nutrient uptake efficiency– drip irrigation provides a window fordirect application of fertiliser (fertigation)

● Ensure optimum growing conditions(i.e. optimum seedbed preparation andsowing, regular field inspections, weedcontrol) to maximise nutrient efficiency

● Sow a cover crop after tomatoes totake up any residual nutrients

Fertilising a field using the minimum tillagesystem (above). The five principles of ‘CRAFT’are helpful in selecting an appropriate fertiliser:Choice of product, Rate of Application,Application method – e.g. the ‘banding’method (left), Frequency and Timing ofapplications. Local research centres and soiltest laboratories are often the best source ofadvice on appropriate nutrients. Regular soiltesting is part of a sustainable fertilisermanagement strategy.

Loss of Nitrate and Phosphate bySurface Run-off, Soil Erosion and toGround Water

● Growers should especially be aware ofareas and soil types that are particularlysensitive to nitrate leaching. Splitapplications are essential in these cases

● Minimise surface water run-off byapplying fertiliser when heavy rains are less likely

● Apply nutrients according to optimumsoil and plant tissue target values

● Avoid water surplus or water-loggedsoil profiles due to inefficient irrigation

● Avoid applying fertilisers adjacent towatercourses by leaving a 3-4m buffer

● Encourage the introduction andplanting of cover crops after tomatoes

● Take immediate corrective action wherethere is excessive water weed or algalgrowth in standing or slow movingwater, an indication of nutrient overuse. Cereal barley straw/stubble is aneffective treatment for nutrient-

enriched surface water

● Following tomatoes, recommend a crop(cereals) that is highly dependent onnitrogen, climatic conditions permitting,to absorb surplus residual nutrients


● Encourage the grower to establishnutrient budgets considering nutrientinputs and losses, soil reserves, andexported nutrients. Nutrient budgetswill assist in fine-tuning fertiliser ratesand methods of application

● Support establishment of permanentmonitoring sites and encouragegrowers to take up soil testing as partof their fertiliser management strategy

● Evaluate renewable and organicfertiliser options

● Evaluate leaching losses under existingtomato rotation systems as a tool toimprove ‘CRAFT’ and water useefficiencies


PEST MANAGEMENT

When pesticides are applied to crops or livestock, a small but significant proportion can escape to water and air, oraccumulate in foods, affecting ecosystems and human health.Sustainable practices can substitute natural controls for somepesticides, reducing dependence on synthetic substances.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) iskey to sustainable pest and diseasecontrol. IPM is a system of maintainingpest populations below an economicallydamaging level. It is a managementapproach rather than an eradicationprogramme, using many controltechniques integrated into a multi-pronged approach. It does not rely on asingle control method - for examplechemicals. Other control methods usedmay be physical, mechanical, cultural,managerial, genetic, quarantine,exclusion and biological.

IPM programmes are designed to reducethe negative effect of pest control interms of both financial andenvironmental costs. A well-developedprogramme does not rely on pesticides asthe first line of defence against pestpressure, and if pesticides are requiredthey are used rationally.

Measuring and reviewing the totalamount of pesticides applied per hectarein tomatoes can indicate a reduction as aresult of an IPM strategy, but thismeasure does not take into account thehazard potential of the products used.

A pesticide profiling system has beendeveloped to enable a preferred list ofpesticides to be drawn up on the basis of efficacy in tomatoes, human andenvironmental hazard, residue risk and consumer perception, and to ensureconsumer confidence in the tomatobrands. In practice this is a mandatorylist, as products not appearing on the listare not permitted for use on tomatoes bythe processor or government agencies.The aim is to demonstrate a downwardtrend in the mean pesticide profile scoresas higher risk products are graduallysubstituted by less harmful ones.




GOOD PRACTICE

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

● Field manuals must include detailedmethodologies for management of thepests and diseases in each productionarea with emphasis on cultural controls

● Essential elements of the IPM system intomatoes include:

– Consideration of all possible pestsand whether any control is necessary or justifiable

– Selection of disease tolerant, resistantand more vigorous tomato varieties

– Use of routine cultural and physicalcontrols such as rotational aspects,manual weeding, catch crops, etc

– Life history, natural enemies, actionthresholds and appropriate monitoringsystems should be established for allthe key pests on the basis of economicdamage levels and taking into accountnatural controls

– Make available a compendium ordigital manual to all growers to ensure adequate knowledge and pest and disease recognition throughfield scouting

– Where cultural or physical control isnot possible, pesticide applicationdecisions must be made on the basis ofeconomic justification and actionthresholds for pests, which are likely toimpact on yield or quality

– Regular monitoring, either by fieldwalking or the use of pheromone trapsshould be used for key insect pests toallow informed decision making

– No prophylactic use of pesticideswhere possible – move away from thepreventative use of pesticides, with theexception of seed-dressings

– If pesticide use is necessary, use atarget-specific product which isenvironmentally benign to reduce eco-balance disruption and ensure thehighest operator safety

– Broad-spectrum insecticides shouldonly be used where there is no selective alternative and wheneconomically justifiable

– Seed treatments are used to avoidthe need for foliar fungicides, whichshould only be used in exceptionalcircumstances

Weed Control

Weed pressure is high in tomato fieldswith high fertility requirements and manyclosely related weed species

● Prepare the seed bed as early aspossible to germinate the weeds andthen selectively remove themmechanically before drilling

● Use mechanical and/or manual weedcontrol when economically viable

● Spot spraying should be practiced ifpossible to ensure proper targeting of weeds

● Where contaminant weeds are present,rouging (selective, manual removal)should be considered as first option for control

● Herbicide choice should be made onthe basis of weed species, timing, soiltype, weather conditions, crop healthand previous application history

● If vigorous varieties are being grownand weed pressure is low, considerusing reduced rates of certain herbicides

● To achieve sustainable weed controland reduce the risk of developingherbicide resistance, a plannedprogramme of rotating activeingredients from different chemicalgroups should be introduced

Tomato crops must be checked throughout thegrowing season for early signs of pests anddiseases (opposite).

By far the most pernicious weeds in all tomatogrowing areas are the nightshades, (blacknightshade, top). A single plant can produceup to 30,000 seeds which lie dormant forseveral years, awaiting ideal conditions. So farthere is no efficient herbicide, and croprotation is the best weapon. Unchecked,nightshades can cause yield reductions of upto 50%.

Fruitworm (middle) completes its larvaldevelopment inside the fruit. Feeding results ina messy, watery internal cavity filled with castskins and faeces, and yield losses of up to 30%.

The Colpam predictive system (above) for fungaldiseases detects early and late blightproliferation risks, based on a leaf wetness andtemperature matrix. The system offers anaccurate way to enhance fungicide action andmanage its use.

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PEST MANAGEMENT CONTINUED


Pesticide Use

● Issue a list of permitted pesticidesrecommended by the processor andformally reviewed by appropriategovernmental and non-governmentalorganisations:

– based on their efficacy and hazard(human and environmental) profile inrelation to the field and weatherconditions in which they are to be used (soil type, drainage, leachingpotential, rainfall, etc.)

– to be reviewed on an annual basis to include any newly registeredproducts or new information relating to older products

– excluding compounds which erodeconsumer confidence in the tomatobrands

– aimed at leaving no residue in thefinal product and complying withinternational MRL (Maximum ResidueLevel) legislation

– pesticides used are restricted to thoseon the permitted list

● Accurate records must be kept ofpesticide use, including any legislativerequirements

● Pesticides should be selected from thepermitted list with regard to theirefficacy and hazard (human andenvironmental) profile in relation to thefield and weather conditions in whichthey are to be used (soil type, drainage,leaching potential, rainfall, etc.).Company agronomists and farmmanagers must be able to justify theuse of each pesticide

● Ensure pesticide harvest intervals (timebetween application and harvest) arestrictly adhered to – failure to do so willlead to crop rejection

● Spray applications must comply with thestatutory conditions of use on the label

● Ensure safety measures are followedwith respect to pesticide handling anduse, including appropriate storage,mixing, cleaning and waste handlingfacilities and the correct use ofappropriate personal protectiveequipment

● Ensure highest attention to operatorsafety through:

– Regular training and retraining

– Provision of appropriate protectiveclothing

– Making personal washing facilitiesavailable and stipulate all clothing andequipment must be appropriatelywashed/cleaned after use

– Routine health checks for operatorsand appropriate measures for first aid and incidents associated withproduct use

– Pesticide purchase should berecommended from suppliers who will take back empty containers forproper disposal

● Label nozzle recommendations inrelation to spray quality should befollowed. Consider using low driftspray equipment wherever possible

● All applications must be made by asuitably qualified operator

● Consider the protection of appropriatebuffer zones around water bodies,habitats of particular wildlifeimportance and buildings, especiallydwellings and places of work, schools, etc.

● Spray equipment used should be wellmaintained and regularly calibrated.Records should be kept of proceduresand equipment calibrated


● Review current pesticide use, using thepesticide profiling method – assess therisks of use, substituting where possiblewith the lowest risk (non-chemical IPMcompliant) control measure

● Promote research on bio-control agents(predators, parasites, bio-fungicides,etc.) as IPM tools. Where researchfindings are encouraging, incorporatetheir systems into managementpractices and evaluate theireffectiveness and consequences for pest management and the wider environment

● Research alternative products such assemio-chemicals (behaviour disrupters),natural chemicals, which might provideeconomically justifiable alternatives tosynthetic pesticides

● Investigate and test use of precisionfarming tools as part of a decisionsupport system

● Research into better ways to assesspesticide risk for use in profiling system

● Reduce rates or number of pesticidesapplications and use low drift nozzles

● Investigate weed-mapping techniquesto target herbicides more efficiently

● Research where in rotation best weedcontrol might be obtained

● Define weed tolerance levels to allowselective weeding

● Investigate the potential of mechanicalweeding as an option for weed control,to replace and/or complement the useof pre- and post-emergence herbicides

● Use Low Dosing System (LDS) – splitpesticide applications to increaseeffectiveness

● Use Metered Dosing Systems (MDS) –new spray application technologiesenabling pesticides to be metered andmixed at point of application

● Create better awareness of the risksand impacts of farmyard pesticidelosses (filling and cleaning of sprayer,disposal of empty containers andpackaging), even where amounts are small

● Provide guidelines and support togrowers on minimising water pollutionassociated with storage, filling andcleaning spray equipment


CASE STUDY: USING SORGHUM AS A WHITEFLY SHIELD CROPWhitefly Bemisa tabaci and Silverleafwhitefly B. argentifolli are sap-suckingpests which can transmit disease andcause tomato fruits to drop. Theymigrate in huge populations from othercrops such as soybean, melons andcotton and attach themselves to theunderside of leaves. Here they feedvoraciously, causing the leaves to yellowand curl. The honeydew they excretebecomes mouldy, giving the leaves ashiny or blackened appearance. Inhumid areas especially they alsotransmit geminiviruses such as thedevastating tomato yellow leaf curl. All tomato varieties are susceptible towhitefly damage.

One solution to the whitefly problemwhich is working well in Brazil is toplant swathes of sorghum alongsidefield margins, the areas of a field thatare usually infected first. Sorghumgrows faster than tomatoes andprovides an ideal habitat for whitefly.Swarms of insects descend on the tallerplants, ignoring the nearby tomatoplants that are developing more slowlycloser to the ground. Sorghum is alsoextremely attractive to a wide variety of native wildlife, including parrots and other birds.


Sorghum (above) plantedalongside field margins (farleft) entices whiteflies awayfrom tomato plants. Regularmonitoring for eggs (left) isessential to prevent damageand transmitted diseases, suchas geminivirus (below).


BIODIVERSITY

The diversity of biological systems can be improved or reducedby agriculture. Sustainable agricultural practices can improvebiodiversity both within cultivated fields as well as in adjacentuncultivated habitat.

The word biodiversity simply means‘variety of life.’ By definition, biodiversityincludes all life forms.

The development of agriculture hascaused significant changes in the nativeflora and fauna in most agricultural areas.Current farming practices can also have a positive or negative impact onbiodiversity. There is wide acceptance that human activity (including farming)should not cause any further loss ofbiodiversity; and should enhancebiodiversity where possible.

Certain plant and animal species, whichform a natural part of the arableecosystem, are important indicators ofthe health of that ecosystem and ofchanges occurring within it. Theseindicators show the total impact of arange of factors in that environment. It isimportant to understand which flora andfauna species are present, at whatdensities, and how management practicesmight affect these species, especially inrelation to whole farm habitat qualityand management. The areas on a farmmanaged as ‘natural’ habitat include fieldmargins, uncultivated areas, hedges andwaterways. Such habitats provide adiverse and stable environment for bothbeneficial (i.e. predators and parasitoids)and pest species. Conservation andenhancement of bio-diversity is important,particularly for farm operations located inareas of high habitat value.

At the level of crop genetic diversity,the long-term sustainability of cropproduction is strongly dependent on themaintenance of a wide genetic base fromwhich future progenies, varieties orclones could be developed.



GOOD PRACTICE

Crop Genetic Diversity

● Support the use of diverse tomatovarieties e.g. no mono-culture ofidentical hybrids

Whole Farm Habitat Quality andManagement

● Conduct a farm biodiversityreconnaissance assessment to identifythe presence, magnitude and health ofany existing flora and fauna on thefarm or in the vicinity

● Enhance the farm environment forlocally important, rare or endangeredspecies by providing appropriatehabitats and adopting proactive culturalpractices, including avoiding pesticidedamage to beneficial flora and fauna

● Consider creating suitable biodiversityhabitat as permanent features in areasof low productivity

● Carry out a full environmental impactassessment before any extension of thetomato growing area into previouslynon-agricultural, natural habitats

● Encourage the conservation and re-establishment of native forests andtrees planting in areas that have beenconverted from forest. Emphasis shouldbe on planting of native species in amanner that mimics the natural forestmosaics (species composition similar toundisturbed local ecosystems). Nativetree species can be planted morewidely through estates and farmswithout affecting the other agriculturalactivities. Riparian zones, roadsides andfield margins can provide other usefulareas for conservation without directimpacts on viable farm land areas

● Ensure that field margins and bufferzones are maintained and dominatedby native species

● Link wildlife habitats wherever possiblethrough corridors and field margins.

● Adhere to Integrated Pest Management principles

● Prevent the spray of chemicals into ornext to waterbodies and consider using

buffer zones even where it is not astatutory requirement

● Minimise losses of nutrients to theenvironment by ensuring principles ofCRAFT are applied and by maximisingirrigation water use efficiencies


● Undertake baseline studies of habitattypes and landscape elements toimplement biodiversity enhancementplans

● Identify opportunities to participate andlink with regional conservation strategies

● Work with local initiatives:

– to adopt conservation measures forlocal rare or endangered species

– to learn about and to encouragebiodiversity, co-operate with researchprogrammes that assess and documentbiodiversity on the farm andsurrounding area

● Help to define the management ofmarginal areas to enhance beneficialflora and fauna, avoiding negativeeffects on the cultivated area

● Encourage widespread biodiversitymonitoring

● Enhance growers’ awareness ofpotential benefits of improved habitat

Preserving the native environment in andaround farms encourages biodiversity. Thephotographs opposite taken on a tomato farmin Brazil indicate the immense variety that canthrive even in small areas - including the emu.

In drought-striken Australia swampy areas(top) are best left as they are. It is not worthgrowing crops in such pockets, and there aremany benefits from encouraging nativewildlife. Additionally, swampy areas areimportant in water table management.

Great efforts are being made on tomato farmsin California (above) to encourage biodiversitywhere little existed before. One project inconjunction with a local high school involvesrestoring a field recycling pond with the aim ofencouraging native flora and fauna.



PRODUCT VALUE

Product value is a measure of the desired outputs of anagricultural system. Sustainable practices should maintain or improve product value.

Sustainable tomato production must beproductive, competitive and efficient.Product value is determined by thecombination of tomato yield perhectare and product quality,minimising costs and waste, and addingvalue wherever possible.

Yield per hectare is used as a measure of the economic sustainability oftomatoes, since yield should bemaintained or improved where possible.Yield also provides an important measureof impact for other sustainabilityindicators when expressed as per tonneof finished product.

Quality of the final product includes bothtangible (taste, colour, appearance, etc.)and perceived quality of the final product. Good tangible quality tomatoeswhich meet processors’ standards notonly add value for the grower and theprocessor, but also avoid fruit lossesduring harvest, transport, handling andprocessing. Consequently environmentalimpact is diminished. Perceived qualityrefers to consumer concerns about food safety, environmental performanceand social responsibility, which must be satisfied.




GOOD PRACTICE

Yield per Hectare

● Select growing areas based onsuitability for growing tomatoes toensure high yield per hectare combinedwith reduced input levels

● Select growers for their ability toproduce good yields and high qualitycrops, and support the ‘growers group’approach in this process

● Provide good up-to-date technicaladvice to enable growers to get thebest from the crop

● Harvesting efficiency is important inmaximising product value

Product Quality

● Use only pesticides on the permitted orpreferred list. Pre-harvest intervals mustbe strictly followed

● Pre-processing product control onpesticide residues should be carried outand targets set for pesticide residuesbelow legal Maximum Residue Levels(MRLs), with the aim of achieving zerodetectable residues in the final productin the long term


● Development of a HACCP planincorporating Critical Control Pointtools for fruit production, harvest,transport and sample procedure toensure full traceability from seed tofinished product

● Ensure growers follow processor’sinternal Quality Procedures for fruit inaddition to the Good Practiceguidelines as the main reference forfarm to factory quality control.

Yield per hectare and product quality are the measure of product value. Attention todetail is the key, from preparing the soil toplanting and monitoring growth. Sampling the crop in the field (above) before and during harvesting (opposite) is all part of tight quality control.

Sampling continues in the factory (top) toestablish Brix - the soluble solids content, and

MOT - material other than tomatoes. Greentomatoes and fruits that are damaged,diseased or mouldy are deducted from thetotal weight to establish the net weight. If certain thresholds are exceeded truck loads can be refused.

An evaporator (right) is part of primaryprocessing in the making of intermediateproducts including tomato paste and dice.


ENERGY

Although energy from sunlight is essential for growth, theenergy balance of agricultural systems depends on additionalenergy, from non-renewable sources to power machinery.Sustainable practices can improve the balance of energy andcontribute to efficient energy use.

The efficient use of renewableresources should be targeted since theuse of non-renewable sources, such asfossil fuel, is not sustainable in the longterm. Energy use is a measure of resource consumption and is related to environmental impacts such asgreenhouse gas emissions andacidification.

Through the burning of fossil fuels,organic matter, releasing CO2, nitrousoxide (N2O) and methane (NH4) into theatmosphere, humans have induced thegreenhouse effect known as ‘globalwarming’. Arable and horticulture farmscan have an impact on the greenhouseeffect; however through the use of goodagricultural practices the impact can besignificantly reduced.

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) oftomatoes quantifies the contribution ofagricultural activities to total energy usedand emission levels of the total life cycle –from ‘field to fork’. The dominant indirectenergy input in tomatoes relates tosynthetic fertiliser and pesticidemanufacture, while a major componentof direct energy use on the farm relatesto irrigation, cultivation and harvesting.

The on-farm energy balance is a keymeasure relating metabolisable energywith energy inputs to produce the crop.Farms generate a range of waste streams,from field crop trash, input packagingand handling (fertiliser and chemicals),irrigation equipment, workshop andmachinery wastes. The ‘farm waste ratio’looks at the amount of waste used,recycled and/or disposed of safely inrelation to total volumes of farm wastegenerated.


This Colpam device is used to predict fungal diseases, so that growers can targetand minimise their use of chemicals. It is solar powered, which is a practical, self-sustaining solution to equipment that is permanently installed on fields far from the main sources of energy.



GOOD PRACTICE

Efficiency and the Use of RenewableResources

● Minimise use of fossil fuel for powergeneration i.e.

– Optimise field operations, includingtransportation from field to factory

– Careful selection of equipment

– Ensure proper and timelymaintenance

– Meter all power outlets to minimisepower misuse/wastage.

● Minimise the input of syntheticfertilisers and consider alternativeorganic and renewable fertilisertechnologies

● Investigate and test alternativepractices for reducing, re-using,recycling and/or safe disposal of wasteincurred in tomato growing

● Review practicality of best currentwaste re-use, recycling and disposaltechnologies available

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

● Optimise nitrogen balance (nitrogeninput minus output) to reduce nitrousoxide losses and consider split nitrogenapplications to match crop demand

● Ensure sufficiently aerated soil andminimise periods of water logging toreduce denitrification throughapplication of a soil compactionalleviation strategy

● Use irrigation scheduling techniquessuch as soil moisture sensors andmanual field soil moisture assessmentsto improve timing and placement of irrigation

● Improve irrigation system water useefficiency through the use of dripsystems (converting from less efficientfurrow systems)

● Minimise tillage intensity and depth tomaintain and/or improve level of soilorganic carbon levels

● Avoid burning stubble and trashthrough improved tillage practices andincorporation techniques

● Optimise fossil fuel consumption duringfield operations through reduction oftillage timing and depth and choice ofmachinery

● Consider establishing biodiversityconservation areas (areas of nativevegetation) to improve the farm CO2

balance and offset farm CO2 emissions


● Further work on more detailed energyaudits – including machinery efficiency,work rate and fuel use per hectare – toreview the baseline

● Investigate energy requirements inrelation to harvest strategies andenergy efficiency of harvesters

● Investigate alternative practices forrecycling and waste disposal, especiallyplastics

● Review possible use of alternativeenergy sources such as bio-fuels

● Long-term strategy for use of plant oilfor fuel and lubrication of tractors

● Develop the potential for generation ofrenewable energy sources, includingbio-gas from factory organic wastesand, where practical, develop hydro-electricity or wind-power schemes

● Review fertiliser application scheme toreduce gaseous losses, in particularidentifying renewable nitrogen sources.Research slow release nitrogentechnology. Nitrification inhibitors alsoneed attention

Large fields (left) enable farmers to use verywide machinery, so minimising the number of passes needed through a field which notonly helps in preventing soil compaction butsaves energy too. In California (above) windfarms supplement systems which generateenergy by conventional methods.


WATER

Irrigation is indispensable in tomato production. Poor andinefficient practices can lead to pollution of ground and surfacewater with pesticides and nutrients, and may cause soil erosion. Sustainable practices target inputs and reduce losses.

All aspects of water management areimportant in that water itself is a criticalrenewable resource for all agriculturalproduction. Responsible use andmanagement of water (i.e. irrigation)supplies is fundamental to thesustainability of not only agriculture, butalso human health and socialdevelopment. Water plays an importantrole in the environment’s ability to ‘self-purify’. The quantity of water used forirrigation is a useful direct measure toassess water consumption.

Irrigation is indispensable in tomatoproduction and in the climatic conditionsunder which the crop is grown. Irrigationvolume and scheduling need to becontrolled carefully even in rain-fed areas.When water is a scarce resource, securingthe sustainability of water supply isimportant. Adequate water storage andquality are highly important. Healthy andsustainable production can only bemaintained if adequate precautions aretaken to avoid open space, ground andirrigation water from being polluted inany way. The irrigation practices that arethe most appropriate for tomatoproduction vary considerably with thegeographical and climatic conditions ofdifferent regions; the most common typesare furrow, drip and centre pivot.


Two methods of irrigation. A traditional pivotsystem (left) which irrigates the whole field,and carries with it, in the high humidity ofBrazil, a high risk of disease proliferation.Increasingly farmers are turning to drip systems(above) which target the roots of the tomatoplant very directly, so saving water andchemicals as well as money. Drip is expensiveto install, but can soon pay for itself throughdramatically improved productivity as well assavings of inputs.



GOOD PRACTICE

Irrigation

● Ensure the amount of water applieddoes not exceed the water holdingcapacity of soils

● Regularly maintain irrigation equipmentand systems to minimise water wastagevia leaks

● Ensure that refuelling and lubricationoperations for pumping equipment donot pollute watercourses

● Monitor the quality of irrigation waterapplied. Water harvested fromagricultural or industrial areas may haveeffects on soil nutrient retention andrelease equilibrium, and there may alsobe toxicity effects from pollutants

● Keep irrigation records of water usageand timing, and measure waterconsumption (flow metres)

● Where practical advance the use of drip irrigation rather than furrow orpivot irrigation for economy of wateruse, disease reduction and subsequentyield improvement

● Pay attention to design and layout ofdrip irrigation systems, inclusivelyflushing endpoints and advise growerson improvements if necessary. Dripirrigation systems are designed andtested to achieve a maximum flowvariation of +/- 5% and +/-10%variation in pressure and a distributionuniformity of >90%

● Backflow prevention devices must be inplace for all fertiliser injection facilitiesregardless of whether inject occurs onsuction or discharge side of the pumpor in-field injection into submains

● Use objective methods for determiningwhen and how much water to applyare used. These methods include: soilmoisture sensors, tensiometers,weather stations (evapotranspirationmodels) and manual field deep soilprobe assessments

● Where appropriate, support growers’knowledge and practices on irrigationwith available modelling systems

Sustainability of Water Supply

● Maintain in-field dams and water reservoirs. Consider theenvironmental impacts of waterharvesting on downstream ecosystems

● To minimise contamination of watersupplies use dedicated water tanks forfilling and cleaning spray equipment.Spray out tank washings on the cropand clean down equipment in an areaof least risk to the environment andwater supplies.

● To avoid unintentional pollution topublic open waters and to storerecycled water the laying-out of tailwater ponds should be encouraged


● Promote wider use of irrigationscheduling techniques

● Regular checks on irrigation system andscheduling performance on tomatofarms and, if possible, use the pilotfarms to demonstrate a benchmark

● Support enhanced water managementsystems based on drip irrigation

● Evaluate drip irrigation systemdistribution uniformities

A water channel in the far west of thePeloponnese in Greece (top). Water suppliesare excellent here, with numerous channelsdraining from a large dam and artificial lake.

In Brazil (middle) numerous natural lakes offer a plentiful source of water for irrigationas required. The maintenance of in-field dams and reservoirs is part of sustainable water management.

A state-of-the-art gravel filtering system(above) which is used for the primary filtrationof water taken from reservoirs, dams, opencanals and rivers.

NETA

FIM


SOCIAL AND HUMAN CAPITAL

The challenge of using natural resources sustainably isfundamentally a social one, requiring collective action, thesharing of new knowledge and continuous innovation.Sustainable practices can improve social and human capital. The prime responsibility should remain with the local community.

Good relationships with the workforce,local community, suppliers, customers,NGOs and authorities are vital for thelong-term sustainability of any business.These relationships reflect the degree oftrust within and between social units(individuals and/or groups) and are oftenreferred to as social capital.

Human capital entails the capacity ofpeople to earn and sustain a livelihood,including health, nutrition, education andtraining. Well-trained, knowledgeable,and responsible growers now and infuture form the most important asset forthe tomato business. Social and humancapital forms the basis for innovation,building confidence and creating trust.


Australian farmers, agronomists, scientists,NGOs, local authority and community leaderswith other stakeholders taking part in the Little Wallenjoe field day in Victoria. All ofthem are involved in the sustainable tomatoproduction project. Regular meetings helppromote sustainable farming methods and thesharing of innovative techniques.



GOOD PRACTICE

Relationships (Social Capital)

● Continue to build trust and confidencebetween the company and the growers through:

– Use of long term contracts whichoffer financial security to growers

– Striving to be a good customer,citizen and supplier – pay and supplyon time and at the agreed price

– Company agronomists ensure closecontact between the factory and theindividual growers

● Discuss and develop advanced farmingmethods that support environmentalimprovement

● Provide further structure and facilitiesfor grower participation through:

– Negotiation of prices and contractconditions between growerorganisations and the company

– Giving growers the ability to securetheir production sites based on aprofitable and mutually beneficialrelationship with the operatingcompany

– Establishing communication linksthrough periodical grower meetingsand factory/research site visits

● Link with other stakeholders by:

– Maintaining good relationships withauthorities and others in the localcommunity

– Facilitate interaction betweenconsumers and growers

– Invite local communities to the farmsand the factory

● Share good citizenship with groupscaring for the environment

● Strive to avoid noise, smell or spray drift

Human capital

● Provide training opportunities forgrowers and other interested groups inkey aspects of sustainable tomatoproduction


● Stimulate growers’ participation in theSustainable Agriculture Initiative; andmake joint decisions with the growers’organisations whenever possible, suchas discussing good practice guidelines

● Continue to develop useful andappropriate parameters for social andhuman capital

● Further work on interactions andrelationships requiring socio-economicauditing

● Enable and stimulate growerempowerment in decision makingabout the sustainability of the tomato business

● Grower groups may consider, and besupported in, developing partnershipswith the authorities to addresscommonly shared threats andopportunities, and to support publicservices

● Stimulate and improve relationshipsbetween growers and consumers, and between growers and localcommunities

The 2003 annual Unilever SustainableAgriculture workshop was held in Brazil. Here workshop participants, as well as farmers,(top) are visiting one of the sustainable tomatoproject farms in the Goiânia region.

Truck drivers (above) are the essential linkbetween tomato growers and the factory. Theprocessors rely on them for safe and preciselytimed delivery of the crop, and their ability toarrive on schedule is critical in safeguardingfruit quality and the smooth running of the factories.


LOCAL ECONOMY

Sourcing agricultural inputs locally helps sustain businesses,livelihoods and communities. Sustainable practices maximiseuse of local resources to increase efficiency.

Rural communities are dependent onsustainable local agriculture. Farming andother businesses can help build andsustain these communities by buying andresourcing locally. The production oftomatoes provides growers with animportant income source, and it alsoprovides work and income to the localcommunity. This is reflected by theamount of money spent to source goods(including raw materials) and services.

Furthermore, a grower’s margin fromtomato production should be highenough to ensure proportional coverageof grower’s non-crop related expensesand sustained tomato production, relative to accepted economic and social standards.

GOOD PRACTICE

Local Resourcing

● Use local suppliers wherever practical(based on availability, reliability andcost).

● Use local growers as much as possible(based on reliability and consistency in

performance – yield and quality oftomato crop)

● Promote the employment of localworkforce on the farms

● Assess the relative share of turnoverspent locally and enhance wherepossible.

Grower’s Margin

● Yields, production cost breakdown andgrower’s margin should be monitoredand evaluated annually


● Continue to improve yields and reducecosts on the farms in the context ofpromoting good agricultural practices

● Consider working with localcommunities to develop businesses that reduce the need to import goodsand services (for the farm) from further afield


Hand harvesting (above left) sustains a verylarge section of the community in Brazil inareas where UBF sources processing tomatoes.Goiânia (top) is the main city in the Cerradoand the centre for agricultural development inthis large region. Approximately 525,000tonnes of tomatoes are processed by UBFannually in Brazil.

In Australia (middle) the Tatura tomatoprocessing factory is vital to the economy ofthe small agricultural town of Tatura inVictoria. UBF in Australia processes some50,000 tonnes of tomatoes annually.

In California’s central valleys (above) theexcellent infrastructure is one reason for UBF’sefficient processing of some 650,000 tonnes oftomatoes annually. California is the world’smain growing area of processing tomatoes andthe crop is therefore vital to the economy.



THE FARMERS’ VIEW

Frank Muller (right) of Joe Muller & Sons, here with UBFfieldsman Rudy Lucero (middle) and UBF director, fieldoperations Randy Rickert (left), in the Sacramento Valley,California. Frank comments: “Unilever Bestfoods (UBF) is the firstbuyer we have worked with to recognise the value ofsustainable agriculture. We recently signed a three-year termcontract for processing tomatoes with UBF. This contract offersour farming operation significant economic sustainability, withtime rather than price the most important component. Untilthis contract was signed, the cost of production was the majorfocus of economic sustainability. Now a secure flow of incomecan also be a part of the sustainability index. The contract hasallowed us to turn a philosophy into a valuable marketing tool.

The term commitment has given us the motivation to be more aggressive and innovative inresearching and adopting new production practices.

“Interestingly, our conversations with UBF representatives haveevolved from price and tonnage negotiations to discussionsabout cover crops, water return systems, crop rotation and otherproduction practices that provide benefits to multiple parties inthis community. We appreciate the opportunity to be alignedwith a company that is an innovator in the sustainabilitymovement. We look forward to the day when the marketplacerecognises the true value of UBF’s efforts.”

Carlos Alves de Leles farmswith his brother Marco inItaberaí near Goiânia, Goiás inBrazil. He explains: “We beganworking with UBF in 2002.Growing tomatoes requiresmore effort than other cropsbut we find it a good business.Profitability depends on field

performance with price driven by the contract you have withUBF. We achieve some 100-110 tons/ha, while the average yieldin Goiânia is 80 tons/ha.

“We have two irrigation systems, the traditional sprinkler (pivot,seen here) and drip irrigation. We have found significantadvantages with drip, including savings on water and pesticidesuse as well as higher yields. Careful management is essential,and we are still learning how to optimise the system. We usetechnology such as tensiometers, disease monitoring systems(Colpam), and soil analysis. Pest management on the drip area isvital, with white fly and geminivirus the main challenges. Wealso want to preserve the natural forest and encouragebiodiversity. We have registered one area of natural forestalready, and plan a second, to be linked by a wildlife corridor,which will enhance the whole locality.”

Sergio, Glenn and Allan Roratofarm at Jerilderie, New SouthWales. Sergio says: “Mybrother Lou and I came toAustralia in the 1960s, and ouroperations include cultivatingprocessing tomatoes, othermixed crops and a foodprocessing plant. We were oneof the first to furrow-irrigatecrops such as tomatoes andonions in this region, and mysons Glenn and Allan are someof the first to trial precisionfarming technology in thetomato processing industry.”Glenn adds, “We went fromtaking virtually no soil tests toconducting over 190 tests in2002/3. The information wehave learned from the UBFsustainable approach hashelped us to reduce ourfertiliser requirements by over30% so far. Yields are up too.”



GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Text

Sikke MeermanJos van Oostrum

Editorial consultant

Juliet Walker

Design

Red Letter Design, London

Photographs

©Unilever unless otherwise stated

Printing

Scanplus, London

We would like to acknowledge thesupport of the many contributors tothis project including the following:

Unilever Companies:■ UBFNA, Stockton, California, USA■ UBFBrazil, Sao Paolo, Brazil■ UBFAustralasia, Sydney, Australia

Unilever Research:■ Unilever R&D Colworth

Unilever Sustainable Agriculture AdvisoryBoard (SAAB) Members: ■ Janet Barber – UK■ Hartmut Bossel – University of Kassel,

Germany■ Barbara Dinham – Pesticides Action

Network, United Kingdom■ Amadou Diop – Rodale Institute, USA■ Bernward Geier – International

Federation of Organic AgricultureMovements, Germany

■ Anne-Marie Izac – International Centrefor Research on Agroforestry

■ Richard Perkins – WWF, United Kingdom

■ Per Pinstrup-Andersen – InternationalFood Policy Research Institute

■ Jules Pretty – University of Essex,United Kingdom

■ Rudy Rabbinge – University ofWageningen, The Netherlands

■ Bernard Tinker – Oxford University,United Kingdom

Other organisations:■ Horticulture Australia■ Australian Greenhouse Office■ Outsourced Environmental Australia

CREDITS

Biodiversity – There are two aspects tobiodiversity: the first is the diversity ofwild floral and faunal species on andaround a tomato field and up tolandscape scale. The second is the geneticdiversity in the tomato crop grown on aworld scale

Greenhouse effect – The rise in globaltemperature caused by certain gases inthe atmosphere (e.g. carbon dioxide)trapping energy from the sun

Integrated Farm Management (IFM) –A whole farm policy encompassing cropand animal husbandry, which providesthe basis for efficient and profitableproduction, which is economically viableand environmentally responsible. IFMintegrates beneficial natural processesinto modern farming practices usingadvanced technology. It aims to minimise

environmental risks while conserving,enhancing and recreating that which is ofenvironmental importance

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) –A sustainable approach to managingpests by combining biological, cultural,physical, and chemical tools in a way thatminimises economic, health andenvironmental risks

Low Dosing Systems (LDS) – Lowdosing systems are an emerging newapproach used to apply fungicides inparticular where the label rates are splitinto 2 or 3 applications in order to improvethe efficacy of the applied pesticide.

Metered Dosing Systems (MDS) -These systems involve modifying existingspray application equipment to carrywater and pesticides, thereby only having

the mixing of pesticides prior toapplication to target crops. Advantagesof these systems include improvedefficiency and efficacy, reduced OH&Srisks associated with chemical handlingand mixing, reduced environmentalimpacts due to the elimination of theneed to wash chemical tanks and vats,reduced chemical compatibility issues intanks as chemicals are stored inmanufacturers containers prior to directfield application.

Pesticide – A chemical used to controlinvertebrates (such as insects, mites, slugsand snails, nematodes, etc.), weeds, plantdiseases and vertebrate pests.


Growing for the Future II

Unilever and SustainableAgriculture (2002)

Tea – A popularBeverage

Journey to a SustainableFuture (2002)

Palm Oil

A Sustainable Future(2001)

FURTHER READING

Fishing for the Future II

Unilever’s Fish SustainabilityInitiative (FSI) (2003)

Our Everyday Needs

Unilever’s Water Care Initiative (2001)

In Pursuit of theSustainable Pea

Forum for the Future incollaboration with Birds Eye(2002)

*Growing for the Future

Spinach: For A SustainableFuture (2003)

Sustainable Tea

Good Agricultural PracticeGuidelines (2002)

Sustainable Palm Oil


*Sustainable Vining Peas


*Sustainable Spinach


UNILEVER SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

UNILEVER SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE INITIATIVES

GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES

• Growing for the Future

Tomatoes: For A SustainableFuture (2003)

*Available in English, German and Italian •Available in English and Portuguese

• Sustainable Tomatoes


If you wish to read more about our sustainable agriculture programme, please look at theUnilever website at www.unilever.com/environmentsociety/sustainability

Specific documents, protocols, brochures, etc. can be found at www.growingforthefuture.comor email us at [email protected]

For information on the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) - a platform created by the food industry to support the development of and communicate worldwide about sustainable agriculture – visit www.saiplatform.org


“Unilever is committed to makingcontinuous improvements in themanagement of our environmentalimpact and to the longer-term goal ofdeveloping a sustainable business.Unilever will work in partnership withothers to promote environmental care,increase understanding of environmentalissues and disseminate good practice.”

Antony Burgmans and Niall FitzGerald, Chairmen of Unilever.

U [email protected]

www.unilever.com

ST/RLD/SP/2000/0104


Sustainable Tomatoes

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Transcript of Sustainable Tomatoes