For years, horticulturalists have been using methyl bromide to sterilise soil. But with the knowledge that it is an ozone-depleting substance, it is becoming imperative to find alternatives. Unlike chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), methyl bromide gets into the atmosphere naturally – particularly in volcanic eruptions – but human activity is probably responsible for releasing much more. Molecule for molecule, it is actually a more efficient ozone-killer than the CFCs, but it breaks down faster than they do. By 2001, the countries of the developed world are planning to cut their emissions of methyl bromide by a quarter and to reduce emissions to zero by 2025. Dr Jonathan Banks, a researcher in CSIRO’s Stored Grain Research Laboratory at the Division of Entomology, has been at the forefront of finding ways to avoid using methyl bromide. For example, covering an area of ground with plastic and then waiting for the sun to heat it up is quite an effective way to sterilise soil. If the temperature is carefully monitored, there’s even a bonus: it is possible to kill the harmful bugs without affecting many of the good ones! Fumigation of produce can also be carried out using other chemicals – for example, carbon dioxide – and a whole suite of different methods can be used to manage pest infestations. In recognition of his work, Dr Banks received the 1996 Stratospheric Ozone Protection Award from the US Environmental Protection Agency. Related site Other boxes Box 1. Meet the ultraviolet family Box 2. Can plants get sunburn?
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