On 20 September, the European Commission published the draft Implementing Regulation for the renewal of the authorisation of glyphosate for 10 years (link).

The Glyphosate Renewal Group (GRG) welcomes the draft regulation, which builds on the strong science-based conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

As mentioned by the Commission, “glyphosate has been subject to two comprehensive assessments since 2012, both of which did not identify any concerns indicating that the authorisation criteria laid down in Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 are not met“.

The next step is for EU member states to vote on the Commission’s proposal. The GRG believes that the decision should be based on the scientific conclusions, which would lead to a vote in favour of re-approval.

Re-approval of glyphosate would strengthen consumer and civil society’s confidence in the EU system for regulating pesticide-active substances, which is one of the most stringent in the world.

It would also allow farmers to keep glyphosate-based products in their toolbox as part of integrated pest/weed management practices, enabling them to control weeds effectively, contributing to a more secure food supply.