News Update - 10/02/2010

Public consultation on the implementation of the EU Directive on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides

The Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) welcomes the launch of the public consultation on the implementation of the EU Directive on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides and believes that this has the potential to lay down the ground work for a comprehensive overhaul and re-evaluation of the way in which the use of pesticides is controlled in the UK.

The Directive gives a number of options for the UK Government that could lead to greater protection for people and the environment if adopted. The proposed measures include the possibility of: implementing a system of prior notification to inform residents before pesticide spraying begins; a ban on pesticide use in areas frequented by vulnerable groups such as schools, hospitals and playgrounds; and the promotion of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

The Consultation will run from 9th February until the 4th May 2010 and is open to anyone to make comments and suggestions. The details of the consultation can be found at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/pesticides/

PAN UK is in the process of compiling a full response to the consultation and will publish details on this website in due course. Please check back for updates.

Nick Mole, Policy Officer with PAN UK says, “This is a huge opportunity to change the way pesticide use is regulated in the UK. The Government have laid out a number of options and it is now up to the public to make their voices heard on the issue.”