Scientists decry EU pesticide overhaul as dangerous regression in safety standards
Researchers warn that the EU's Omnibus X proposal to drop periodic pesticide re-evaluations threatens food and environmental safety.
As part of its Omnibus legislative series, the European Commission introduced Omnibus X to streamline pesticide regulation and boost competitiveness. The draft would eliminate one outlet requirement for periodic re-evaluation of substances considered low-risk, a move that scientists describe as a "dangerous step backward." Martina Vijver, scientific director at the Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, coordinated an open letter on September 17 signed by 573 European researchers calling for a suspension of talks until an independent health and environmental impact assessment is performed.
The proposal faces resistance from several countries, with France explicitly rejecting the principle of unlimited authorisations. On September 23, Council of the European Union representatives failed to reach a compromise, leaving the text in limbo.
Why it matters
The proposal could weaken EU pesticide safety checks, affecting public health and the environment across member states.
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