Due to its environmental efforts, methyl bromide is expected to be internationally banned by 2006. Consequently, many countries have already found alternatives, such as the hydroponics technique, which depends on substrates in replacement of common soil. Substrates are comprised of coconut shells and other additives, such as peat, giving a mixture known as Cocopeat. The coconut shell is a non-cellilose substance, and therefore does not decay with the addition of water, said Khaled Zein El Din, head of HEIA strawberry council, who participated in the trip.

The main advantages of hydroponics plantation are:

*Low level of regular soil diseases, such as botrytis

*Cleaner and safer product, since no sterilization with methy1 bromide is involved.

*Increased productivity levels, amounting to 4-10 times the regular greenhouse cultivation, under the same conditions.

* High efficiency in the use of fertilizers, and no need for fertile soil.

*Up to 20-50% reduction in irrigation water volume.

*This technique is applicable also to the cherry, tomato and capsicum crops.

HEIA Strawberry Council Head Zein EL Din expressed his thanks to Minister plenipotentiary Commercial Mohamed Aref Soliman for his hard work in facilitating the delegation's mission before and during the trip and for hosting several meetings with the British retail and wholesale representatives, Zein El Din also thanked third secretary Khaled El Nemr for his enthusiastic cooperation.