AgroPages-Weed Science Society issues statement concerning registration of glyphosate-Agricultural news

The board of directors of the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) issued a statement supporting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) science-based approach to evaluating glyphosate - a herbicide that has been the focus of recent lawsuits by those concerned that it may be carcinogenic.

The EPA is currently conducting a review of glyphosate as part of its standard, periodic reassessment of previously registered herbicides to ensure they can still be used safely. In April 2019, the organization issued an interim registration decision reiterating that glyphosate is not likely a carcinogen and that risks to public health are low when it is used in accordance with its current label.

The EPA's position has been echoed by the Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency, the European Food Safety Authority and other major regulatory organizations around the globe.

WSSA's statement says that ongoing research and evaluation are justified and that the society will remain current on further developments related to carcinogenic risk and glyphosate as new information becomes available.

"Though WSSA members are not experts in human toxicology and epidemiology, we appreciate the rigorous review process undertaken by the EPA and other regulatory bodies," says Larry Steckel, president of WSSA. "Based on the best available evidence, they have consistently concluded that glyphosate-based herbicides are unlikely to pose significant health risks when used as directed."