Trends in EU biocides regulation

摘要

The placing of biocides on the market of the European Union (EU) is regulated by two review programs defined by the Biocidal Products Directive (BPD) and the Plant Protection Products Directive (PPPD). Furthermore, product specific directives specify the biocidal products which are permitted for use in cosmetics and foodstuffs. Moreover, restrictions apply to the residuals of Plant Protection Products (PPP) in foodstuffs. The currently available biocide selection is thus strictly defined, but will also meet even more challenges by the emerging chemicals regulation such as REACH, Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) restrictions and the Water Framework directive. Regardless of these challenges, it is evident that the development of new Active Substances (ASJfor biocides may remain slow due to the high cost of vertebrate tests which are required for the chemical risks assessment for such new products. Consequently, also regulatory authorities should be aware of the potential lack of AS as a risk for stagnation of future product development, where more sustainable alternatives to current AS may not emerge. Fewer new AS may also lead to increased resistance of target organisms, which are adapting to the concentrations and the modes of action of currently used AS, which may have health and/or economic consequences.