In a move to protect the environment and public health, New Zealand authorities have officially banned the use, import, and manufacture of certain antifouling paints containing thiram, diuron, octhilinone, and ziram, effective from 1 August 2023.
The decision to phase out these paints was made due to their detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and potential risks to human health.
Important notifications for users, suppliers, importers, and manufacturers
- Users, including boat owners, builders, contractors, and other individuals, are prohibited from using antifouling paints containing thiram, diuron, octhilinone, or ziram from 1 August 2023.
- Suppliers, importers, manufacturers, and retailers are required to dispose of their remaining stocks of these banned paints by specific deadlines: thiram paints by 1 December 2023 and diuron, octhilinone, and ziram paints by 1 August 2023.
- Importers and manufacturers have been restricted from importing and producing paints containing diuron, octhilinone, and ziram since 2017, and as of 1 July 2023, they are also prohibited from importing or manufacturing paints containing thiram.
Authority also mentions about safety disposal measures
- It is essential to dispose of these antifouling paints properly.
- Local rubbish collections, drains, waterways, and the ground are not acceptable disposal methods.
- Users can check the manufacturer’s disposal instructions, contact regional and district councils to learn about hazardous waste landfills, or get in touch with hazardous waste treatment companies to collect and dispose of the paints safely.
Reasons for the Ban
- Antifouling paints are used to prevent marine growth on boats, but they pose significant risks to marine environments and human health.
- The decision to phase out these paints was based on a thorough review of their effects and public feedback, indicating that the risks associated with their usage outweigh the benefits.
The authorities urge all stakeholders, including users, suppliers, importers, manufacturers, and retailers, to strictly adhere to the ban and disposal regulations. The goal is to safeguard marine ecosystems and ensure a safer environment for all.
