The European Commission recommended that member states extend the license to use the controversial herbicide “glyphosate” for ten years.
The proposal is based, among other things, on the analysis of the European Food Safety Authority, which did not identify conditions of serious concern for human or animal health.
According to the authority, the recommendation is based on sound scientific information.
“At the same time, we must realize that science never stops. We must therefore continue to closely monitor all scientific developments. We have tried to find a balance between the information supporting the committee’s decision and the possibility that new scientific elements may also emerge.” – stated Stefan de Keersmaeker , spokesman for the European Commission.
However, the Commission continues to say that the use of glyphosate should be accompanied by “risk mitigation measures” near the sprayed areas.
Greens and environmental organizations have already expressed their opposition.
“I think it is disastrous and completely irresponsible for the Commission to extend this proposal for ten years. Five years ago we were on the verge of banning glyphosate and for very good reasons because we don’t need it. We don’t need glyphosate for productive agriculture,” said Tilly Metz, MEP Greens: “We do not need glyphosate to control wheat. On the other hand, glyphosate puts long-term food security at risk.”
Glyphosate, an active ingredient used to protect plants, is the most widely used herbicide worldwide and in the European Union, and has been used for several decades.
Member states are now negotiating and will vote. The decision requires a qualified majority and must be taken before December 15, when the current EU mandate expires.
