Has the communication on the EU's strategic approach to pharmaceuticals in the environment really been a turning point in European action? This was the question MEPs put to the EU Council and the Commission on Monday 14 September.
This communication published a year and a half ago by the European Commission focuses on six areas for action to reduce pollution from medicines (see EUROPE 12211/8). In response, the EU Council adopted conclusions stressing that the Commission should be sure “to assess and define the most effective measures, including legislative measures, to mitigate the effects of pharmaceuticals in the environment, to combat the development of antimicrobial resistance and to strengthen the link with the health sector in this regard”.
Urged by MEPs to take stock of past and future European action, Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius said the issue was a priority for him. He indicated that progress had already been made since the publication of the communication.
He cited in particular the addition of new pharmaceuticals to the EU monitoring list in the annex to the Water Framework Directive in August. “Additional pharmaceuticals were included for veterinary medical products. In addition, implementing and delegated acts are currently being drafted under the regulation on veterinary medical products. They also aim to promote a more prudent use of antimicrobials and implement new rules on oral medication”, said the Commissioner.
On behalf of the EU Council, German Foreign Minister Michael Roth, who was not present at the previous debate on the Rule of law in Poland, merely described the European strategy as “very interesting”. (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)