The controversial pesticide glyphosate may continue to be used on European fields – but in Germany, stricter regulations apply. These are now permanently sealed.
The weed killer glyphosate is still subject to restrictions on use in Germany following renewed EU approval. This is stipulated in a regulation by Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir (Greens), which the Federal Council approved with some changes. Its use in home and allotment gardens and in water protection areas is prohibited. In agriculture, pre-sowing and post-harvest treatment on fields and extensive use on meadows remain prohibited. The regulation permanently replaces a temporary emergency regulation.
A recommendation by the Agriculture Committee to exclude water protection areas from the ban on use did not find a majority in the state chamber. The ministry explained that by updating the existing regulations, farmers could rely on tried and tested rules for the use of the total herbicide. At the same time, it would ensure that glyphosate was not used where nature was particularly sensitive or where natural resources needed special protection, such as in water protection areas.
The emergency regulation had lifted a national glyphosate ban that was supposed to take effect on January 1, 2024, but which was no longer legally valid with the renewed EU approval. Restrictions that would otherwise have expired were also temporarily continued. The EU Commission had extended the approval by ten years until 2033. The authority made the decision after there was no majority for or against it among the EU states. Germany abstained.
There is controversy over whether glyphosate could be carcinogenic, among other things. There are also risks to the environment. A recent, extensive study by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found no unacceptable risks, but pointed to data gaps in several areas.
Source: Stern
