We're collaborating with Murdoch University to explore the use of ethyl formate as an alternative to methyl bromide for controlling and eradicating khapra beetle at the Australian border.
The first stage is complete, where a laboratory based Khapra beetle colony is being established in India for ethyl formate testing.
The project will generate data to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of ethyl formate as a potential treatment for Khapra beetle in plant products and sea containers, as well as emergency responses.
Australia uses methyl bromide to control pests at the border. The pesticide works well but harms the ozone layer and can’t be used on organic products.
Other treatments have drawbacks like cost and availability. Ethyl formate is being tested as an alternative as it’s easy to use, fast, safer and doesn’t damage products.
This collaboration with Murdoch University demonstrates our continued commitment to protecting our borders, environment, agricultural commodities, and way of life.
We’ll bring you further updates on the project in the coming months, but in the meantime, you can contact innovationpilots@aff.gov.au for more information.
