On Tuesday 11 July, the European Parliament’s environment (ENVI) committee, citing reasons of public health and environmental protection, objected to authorisation to import soya Das-40278-09 which is resistant to the herbicide 2,4-D (D for dichlorophenol, a chemical compound) into the EU.
To back up their objection, which was approved by 40 votes to 24, with 1 abstention, MEPs highlight the serious concerns expressed by several member states over a potentially flawed risk assessment. The MEPs point out that a scientific study conducted by independent researchers highlights the potential risks posed by chemical compound 2,4-D for embryo development and the hormonal system. They take the view, too, that authorising the import of this soya would encourage the use of the herbicide.
For the same reasons, on 17 May, the European Parliament objected to the marketing authorisation for maize Das-40278-09 which is resistant to herbicide 2,4-D (see EUROPE 11790).
Parliament will vote on this new issue in its plenary session form 11 to 14 September but the result will not be legally binding on the European Commission. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)