The battle against harmful pesticides is reaching a critical juncture as citizens, environmental NGOs, and scientists intensify their call for greater regulation and corporate accountability.
At the heart of the debate is the undeniable impact of pesticides on human health, biodiversity and environmental and economic sustainability. With mounting scientific evidence and growing public awareness, pressure is rising on the European Union to enforce stricter regulations and ensure those responsible for pesticide pollution are held accountable.
On March 25, experts, NGOs, and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) gathered for an Informal Breakfast Briefing to discuss the status quo and future of pesticide risks and regulation in the EU. The event highlighted serious gaps in implementing Directive 2009/128/EC and Regulation 1107/2009, key frameworks designed to protect public health, biodiversity, and environmental safety. Still, it was reminded that these two pieces of legislation exist to ensure the rights of European citizens to enjoy health and safety, clean air and water, biodiversity, and environmental quality.
Why is this discussion crucial?
Multiple reports and studies have raised concerns about the current approval and monitoring system for pesticides:
Lack of transparency and independence in the authorisation process (historical issues with EFSA).
Failure to apply the precautionary principle allows harmful pesticides to remain on the market.
Inadequate post-market monitoring (phytopharmaceutical vigilance).
Insufficient protection for vulnerable groups and ecosystems.
Illegal emergency authorisations granted by Member States
The EU countries must do more
Despite failing to pass the new Sustainable Use of Pesticides Regulation (SUR) in 2024, the EU’s goal to reduce pesticide use and risk by 2030 remains. Compliance with existing laws is critical:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is legally required (Directive 2009/128/EC), must be enforced and farmers not implementing it should not have access to public CAP money.
Emergency authorisations must follow EU law and court rulings.
Member States must strengthen oversight and enforcement.
What citizens and NGOs are demanding
At the briefing, organisations urged the European Parliament to:
Use their power to question the Commission on the enforcement of pesticide laws.
Follow up on the PEST Committee’s recommendations.
Ensure the EU upholds the rule of law on pesticide regulation.
Consider legal action against non-compliance with existing legislation.