- (E) Methyl bromide (CH 3 Br), also known as bromomethane, originates
from both natural and human sources. In the ocean, marine organisms are
estimated to produce approximately 62,000 tons (approximately 56,000
m.t.) annually. Methyl bromide is banned by the Montreal Protocol, but it
has continued to receive “critical use” exemptions from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency to be used as a soil fumigant (primarily
in strawberry fields) to prevent spoilage during storage. This exemption for
U.S. agricultural use does not have a specified end date. The amount of
methyl bromide allowed for critical uses in the United States has declined
from approximately 8,000 tons (7,500 m.t.) in 2005 to approximately 400
tons (approximately 375 m.t.) in 2015.
Both chemical and nonchemical alternatives to methyl bromide exist. For
example, steam sterilization of soil is a viable alternative to using chemical
fumigants for certain pests and soil types. Other nonchemical alternatives
include integrated pest management techniques, pheromones, electrocution,
and light traps.
