Rejection of plans to renew authorisation of the Bentazone herbicide

The European Parliament's plenary session adopted on 23 November 2016 a non-binding resolution calling for the European Union's authorisation for Bentazone herbicide not to be renewed after it expires on 30 June 2017.

MEPs pointed out that Bentazone can easily leak directly into groundwater and is suspected of interfering with human reproduction. The European Commission had proposed to renew Bentazone’s EU authorisation until 31 January 2032, the maximum period possible, while simultaneously requesting data confirming its safety.

The non-binding resolution therefore called on the Commission to request and assess the relevant missing information before deciding on renewal of the authorisation.

The active substance Bentazone acts as a selective post-emergent herbicide against broadleaved weeds in a wide range of crops, and is commonly used in agriculture.

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