New pesticide action plan must be balanced, NFU says 27 February 2021 | The existing National Action Plan for the Sustainable Use of Pesticides was adopted in 2013 A revised National Action Plan for Pesticides must enhance farmers' ability to be competitive and produce safe and affordable food, the NFU has said. The union has submitted its views to the government consultation on its draft five-year action plan, which closed for responses on Friday (26 February). The revised plan aims to minimise the risks and impacts of pesticides to human health and the environment, while ensuring pests and pesticide resistance are managed effectively. Defra sought views from pesticide users, related industries, environmental groups and the public in an effort to move forward on issues surrounding pesticides.