The Environmental Impact Quotient: A Pesticide Decision Tool

Abstract

Determining the impact of pesticides on the environment, workers and consumers can be a complex matter, but NY State’s IPM program has been making it easier for growers to decide which pesticide to use for over twenty years. The Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ) is the formula that simplifies the process. Devised and maintained by the NYS IPM program it is used by growers and crop advisors from NY, the US and abroad. EIQ users enter their crop specifics into the on-line calculator to compare the impact of different pesticides. The EIQ is now under new leadership at IPM, the website is being updated and new pesticides are added as products and data become available, so this tool can continue to serve growers. Upgrades to the EIQ website pages including a link to an instructional video were added in 2015.