BREXIT - 27.11.2019

More clarity needed on pesticides rules

A number of environmental campaign groups want more certainty as to what the UK’s rules on pesticides will be after Brexit. What problems have been identified and how can you avoid falling foul of the law in the future?

Brexit impact

The uncertainty surrounding the UK’s future relationship with the EU has triggered environmental campaigners to seek reassurance from the government that existing regulations will not be watered down or changed. For example, as part of a House of Commons debate, the RSPB has sought clarity on whether the government plans to create a new system for regulating pesticides after Brexit.

What’s the worry?

A piece of secondary legislation is currently in place in the UK that effectively closes a loophole that might have allowed endocrine-disrupting chemicals to be used as active substances in pesticides - products that are banned due to EU legislation.

Note. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals can be found in pesticides, metals, additives or contaminants in food and personal care products.

Two students have discovered that in the wake of Brexit companies could use technical legislation to bypass the law, effectively diluting the UK’s environmental protection legislation.

There are calls for the government to make it clear how it will replicate the EU’s processes when it comes to pesticide approval and regulation. Campaigners also want reassurances that the government will commit to carry out consultations before any new regulations are amended, issued or withdrawn, while formalising the role of scientific advice in authorising future products.

What does it mean for you?

Around 80% of our environmental legislation comes from the EU. Brexit will see a whole host of environmental protection laws redrawn by Parliament. It will also see environment campaign groups scrutinise the process to make sure all new legislation upholds the same, if not stricter, standards.

It will be up to manufacturers of chemicals, cleaning equipment, plant protection products, etc. to ensure that their products meet all required standards, before and after Brexit.

Tip 1. There’s nothing to suggest that companies will try to bend the rules when it comes to meeting environmental, health and safety regulations. But if you’re concerned, stick to your usual trusted suppliers to make sure the products you’re using meet the strictest environmental standards.

Tip 2. If you’re unsure of any changes your suppliers might make to their products as a result of Brexit, don’t be afraid to ask.

Brexit could also see a number of regulations withdrawn and the removal of unnecessary red tape. Once the UK has exited the EU, look at the legislation that impacts your business to understand what has changed.

Note. The Environment Bill will replace EU environment law after Brexit. It addresses clean air, nature protection, waste management, resource efficiency and water.

The government will set up an independent watchdog, known as the Office for Environmental Protection, to hold it to account when it comes to environmental protection.

A loophole that could see product manufacturers breach regulations on endocrine disruptors raises concerns for future environmental protection laws. Stick to your trusted suppliers to make sure standards are maintained. Post-Brexit check to see what laws have changed.

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