Chlorpyrifos Reassessment - proposed ban

The EPA is proposing a ban of Chlorpyrifos, which is the only effective grass grub treatment available in New Zealand.

While there are valid concerns with the chemical and it is on its way out, we are now in a difficult position because the stagnant system for modern and safe chemicals to market in NZ.

We recommend that:

• The EPA improve their chemical approval process through reducing the current back backlog and increasing available tools and ensures there are affordable alternatives available in the New Zealand market before a ban is passed; and
• The EPA considers New Zealand’s unique circumstances as it relates to grass grub when conducting their reassessment of Chlorpyrifos, and allows the continued use of Chlorpyrifos to treat grass grub, until viable and affordable alternatives are readily available in the New Zealand market.