EU set to renew weed killer licence
A transatlantic row over possible risks to human health has prompted investigations by congressional committees in the US, and in Europe has forced a delay to a relicensing decision for Monsanto’s big-selling Roundup herbicide.
A study issued in March by the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) paved the way for the Commission’s decision to restart negotiations with EU nations over renewing the licence for glyphosate, despite opposition from environmental groups.
The EU body, which regulates chemicals and biocides, said glyphosate, the key ingredient in Roundup, should not be classified as a substance causing cancer.
A commission spokeswoman said it had “taken into account the latest state of scientific research and would “work with the member states to find a solution that enjoys the largest possible support.”
No date has yet been set for when discussions with representatives of EU member states will start.
Pending the results of the ECHA study, the EU granted an 18-month extension last July of its approval for the weed killer after a proposal for full licence renewal met opposition from member states and campaign groups.
According to data published by IARC, glyphosate was registered in more than 130 countries as of 2010 and is one of the world’s most heavily used weed killers.
