EPA accepts ELI’s recommendations in evidence-based regulation of hazardous substances - Press Release

ELI is pleased to announce that their recommendations have been heard in the EPA’s reassessment of diazinon, fenamiphos and methamidophos. These chemicals are known as organophosphates (OPs), which are the main component of herbicides, pesticides and incecticides widely used across New Zealand.

In July 2021, the Vegetable Research and Innovation board applied for a reassessment of approvals for substances containing these components, which could see their use extended by an additional 10 years.  

ELI, among other submitters in opposition to the application, indicated that there were greater risks associated with the substances than assessed in the latest research from 2013, and that there is still a dearth of local evidence on the effects of these OPs on New Zealand environment, indigenous taxa and habitats. Furthermore, risk assessment methodologies of these OPs rely heavily on information provided by chemical companies, which have significant commercial interest in downplaying risk, and maintaining their continued usage.  

Considering this, ELI recommended declining the application until independent, local, up-to-date scientific data becomes available on the risks of these OPs on New Zealand’s terrestrial, marine and freshwater environments. Where this information is lacking, the EPA should apply a precautionary approach until further notice.  

“We are happy that the EPA report has recognised our concerns about the risks of the extended use of these dangerous chemicals,” says ELI’s senior environmental researcher, Dr. Matt Hall. “We expect the EPA decision making committee to accept the recommendation to phase out the use of these organophosphates. ”