California bans controversial use of chlorpyrifos

California has banned the use of the controversial insecticide chlorpyrifos because of its health consequences. Although the use of the product is still authorized at the federal level, state health authorities, known for their multiple agricultural production, have announced.

The decision was made on the basis of "increasing evidence of the severe impact of this insecticide on the health of children and other sensitive population groups … especially with regard to its impact on the brain and nerves, "says a joint statement from the Health Agency and the Organization. Use of insecticides in California (DPR).

Farmers have been informed of this decision, which is expected to come into effect after 15 days, unless it is challenged before the administrative justice.

Chlorpyrifos has been banned by individuals in the United States since 2001.

In 2015, the administration of President Barack Obama announced its intention to ban its use completely, but the measure had not yet come into effect when Donald Trump came to power. In 2017, the new director of the Federal Environmental Agency (FEA) rescinded this decision.

Working groups of farmers, industry and scientists should be established in California to find alternatives to this insecticide widely used in crops such as citrus fruits, almonds, cotton and vineyards.

In 2017, in California alone, more than 420 tonnes of chlorpyrifos were sprayed.

Eight countries in the European Union have individually banned the use of this substance or products containing chlorpyrifos.