Media Release

27 June 2008

ERMA New Zealand Seeks Views On Endosulfan

The Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA New Zealand) is calling for public submissions on the continued use of the insecticide endosulfan.

ERMA New Zealand initiated a reassessment of endosulfan following the imposition of tighter restrictions or withdrawal of endosulfan from the market in Australia, the United States and Europe.

In New Zealand, the insecticide is used on a variety of crops including vegetables, berry fruit and ornamentals. It is also used on citrus and for earthworm control on turf at golf courses, bowling clubs, parks, sports grounds, and airports. Use has declined over the past 10 years.

ERMA New Zealand’s Reassessments Manager, Hazardous Substances, Mike Morris, says while endosulfan is currently subject to strict controls, the combination of changes in overseas practice and the availability of less hazardous alternative insecticides means the time has come to ask whether endosulfan is needed in New Zealand and, if so, whether its use needs to be further restricted.

Endosulfan is classified as acutely toxic to humans and very toxic to aquatic animals.

ERMA New Zealand’s reassessment application includes preliminary recommendations that endosulfan be prohibited from aerial use, domestic use, and for airblast application to citrus, and also that increased restrictions and controls be placed on all other uses.

Public submissions are invited on the application and must be received byFriday 8 August 2008. These can be made in writing or online through ERMA New Zealand’s website. If submitters request it, a public hearing will be held on the application.

The application details are available on the ERMA New Zealand website, www.ermanz.govt.nz

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