The European Commission is exploring ways to bridge the gap between different member state requests regarding the re-authorization of the world’s most commonly used weedkiller, glyphosate, an EU spokesperson told EURACTIV.
On 25 September, France reiterated its opposition to glyphosate, which is used in Monsanto’s Roundup product. Following particular pressure from French farmers who expressed concerns about an immediate ban and the lack of cheap alternatives in the market, Paris said it was open to a five-year phase-out period.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) have already given it a positive assessment and the European Commission proposed a 10-year re-authorization of the controversial weedkiller, as a compromise.
On the other hand, Copa-Cogeca, which represents EU farmers, has called for a full 15-year re-authorization of the herbicide, which is the normal procedure in such cases.
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Asked by EURACTIV whether the executive was willing to lower the years of extension in its proposal, an EU spokesperson said, “The Commission is working with member states to find a solution that enjoys the largest possible support, which ensures a high level of protection of human health and the environment – in line with the EU legislation and based on the available scientific data.”
The GLP aggregated and excerpted this article to reflect the diversity of news, opinion and analysis. Read full, original post: Commission seeks ‘largest possible’ support for glyphosate re-authorisation
