An integral part of the National Action Plan for Sustainable Use of Pesticides in Malta is the development of Guidelines for Integrated Pest Management for Malta. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to humans, animals, and the environment. The following guidelines have been adopted for the Maltese Islands.
One of the provisions of the National Action Plan for Sustainable Use of Pesticides, is the development of Guidelines for Non-professional Users of Pesticides i.e. the use of pesticides by the general public. The main aim of these guidelines is to reduce risks and impacts of pesticides use on human and environmental health. Therefore, the guidelines encompass the use of pesticides of low toxicity, ready to use formulations and limitations on sizes of containers and packaging. This information, in combination with guidelines for the protection of human health, the safe use of pesticides during handling, storing, application and disposal and non-chemical methods have been adopted for non-professional users of pesticides.