Australia suspends certain 2,4-D high volatile ester approvals

The APVMA has suspended 2,4-D Ethyl Ester and 2,4-D Isobutyl Ester active constituent approvals for the approval holders. AGROGILL CHEMICALS PTY LTD and 4FARMERS PTY LTD failed to provide required date, which would enable the APVMA to assess the concern that these high volatile esters volatilize and persist in the environment (atmosphere) thereby causing off-target damage.  

2,4-D is a systemic herbicide used post emergence for the control of broadleaf and grass weeds on crops, commercial and industrial areas, turf, forestry and waterways. 

The APVMA found that high volatile ester (ethyl ester, butyl ester and isobutyl ester) forms of 2,4-D pose an unacceptable risk to crops and the environment. In October 2006 the APVMA suspended the registrations and label approvals of 24 products containing high volatile ester forms of 2,4-D and issued new instructions for use until such time as further data is generated by registrants. The suspension has been extended and continued (in May 2007, October 2010, February 2011 and February 2012) and 2,4-D high volatile ester products may only be used according to the Instructions for Use. 

The suspension is in effect from 14 February 2012 until 10 August 2012.