After months of reviewal and lots of discussion, the European Commission has finally published the final document renewing glyphosate, the weedkiller ingredient, for another ten years. Despite concerns about its potential link to cancer and a failure to reach a majority agreement among member states, the decision was made.
This publication will be effective on 16 December 2023!
The renewal comes with tighter restrictions aimed at mitigating potential health and environmental risks.
EU regulators found no reason to believe glyphosate violates safety criteria based on two comprehensive assessments conducted since 2012. Glyphosate has been subjected to two comprehensive assessments since 2012, neither of which found any issues indicating that the approval criteria outlined in Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 were not met. As a result, it is unlikely that enough new information will be accumulated in the near future to result in a different outcome. At the same time, it should be noted that glyphosate research has intensified in recent years, and new insights into glyphosate properties relevant to human health and environmental protection may emerge. To balance those considerations, it is appropriate to provide for the renewal of glyphosate approval for a period of ten years.
These include mainly:
- Reduced application rates: Maximum levels of glyphosate use will be lowered for various crops and soil types.
- Banning non-essential uses: Aerial spraying and application near water bodies will be prohibited.
- Enhanced post-market monitoring: Increased data collection and surveillance will be implemented to ensure compliance and investigate potential adverse effects.
The Commission, which ultimately made the decision in the absence of consensus among member states, cited the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) assessments concluding that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a carcinogenic threat when used as intended. However, they acknowledged the public’s
concerns and emphasized the new restrictions intended to further safeguard human health and the environment.
With the current approval expiring on 15th December 2023, the publication of the final document paves the way for the continued use of glyphosate in the EU. However, the debate surrounding its safety and impact is far from over. The coming years will likely see increased scrutiny and potential legal challenges to the renewed approval and its accompanying restrictions.
The date on which glyphosate’s approval will be renewed-
The date of approval – 16 December 2023
Expiration of approval – 15 December 2033
If you require any regulatory assistance or additional information about Glyphosate registration, please contact info@auxilife.com or info@eu.auxilife.com
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