New Zealand proposes to restrict dichlorvos use

The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is reassessing dichlorvos and five dichlorvos-containing formulations because of concerns about the safety and well-being of people and the environment arising from dichlorvos use. The EPA do not support the continuation of the current practices using dichlorvos, particularly where assessment has identified significant residual risks. Therefore, the authority proposes significant restriction on 3 formulations (Nuvos, Divap, and Arour Crop Insecticide), and revoke approval on another 2 formulations(BV2 Surface Insecticide and BV2 Surface Insecticide Bulk). The EPA invites public submissions on its proposal until December 10th.   

 

Dichlorvos is a volatile organophosphate insecticide used to control a wide range of insect pests across the agricultural, horticultural, biosecurity and public health industries, and in domestic/home settings. 

 

Significant acute, chronic and systemic health effects on people and non-target organisms in the environment have resulted in regulatory reviews of dichlorvos in the US, Canada, Australia and Europe. Those reviews have resulted in the prohibition of certain uses of dichlorvos and the introduction of stringent risk mitigation measures. In Europe, withdrawal and phasing out of all dichlorvos plant-protection uses was led by industry.