European Union simplifies the approval process for biopesticides

The European Union has approved new rules facilitating the use of microorganisms in the production of biological plant protection products and allowing farmers to replace chemicals with biological analogs.

“Biologicals can protect crops with less risk to human health and the environment,” said European Union Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides. “As part of our Farm to Fork strategy, we have committed to a 50% reduction in the use of chemical pesticides by 2030 and it is critical to have a sustainable alternative.”

Once the rules come into force in November this year, the approval of microorganisms for use in the production of biological plant protection products and the issuance of permits for their use will be much faster than before, thereby accelerating their time to market.