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Title: EMISSIONS OF METHYL BROMIDE FROM AGRICULTURAL FIELDS. RATE ESTIMATES AND METHODS OF REDUCTION

Author
item Yates, Scott
item GAN, J - U.C. RIVERSIDE
item ERNST, F - U.C. RIVERSIDE
item Wang, Dong
item YATES, M - U.C. RIVERSIDE

Submitted to: Proceedings of American Chemical Society National Meeting
Publication Type: Review Article
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/12/1995
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Methyl bromide, a soil fumigant, is under intense scrutiny due to evidence which suggests that it damages the stratospheric ozone layer. Because of this, methyl bromide is scheduled for phase-out by 2001. The National Agricultural Pesticide Impact Assessment Program has determined that there will be substantial adverse economic impacts on the agricultural community if the use of methyl bromide is restricted. This ha prompted numerous scientists to: study the environmental fate and transport of methyl bromide; search for replacement chemicals and/or nonchemical alternatives; and develop new methodology which improved containment of methyl bromide (or any alternative fumigant) to the treatment zone, while maintaining adequate pest control. This paper reports on several recent experiments to measure of methyl bromide emissions from agricultural operations. Information is also provided on the processes and mechanisms which must be fully understood if reliable methods for reducing atmospheric emissions are to be obtained, without a reduction in pest control.