The controversial debate over whether glyphosate should be reauthorised has arable farmers, EU politicians and industry experts divided.
Glyphosate, popularly used as a weed-killer, is the most widely and heavily used agri-chemical worldwide.
In use for over 40 years, the product’s licence was originally due for renewal in 2015. However, the process was interrupted when the International Agency for Research on Cancer claimed that the product could be carcinogenic. The EU Commission instead extended its licence for 18 months – to 31st December 2017 – until a decision could be reached.
A study released in January this year showed that glyphosate-based herbicides caused liver diseases in rats at ‘very low’ doses, suggesting a causative link between long-term exposure to the chemical and serious disease.
However, the Crop Protection Association called the study ‘flawed’.
The debate hit media headlines when BBC Springwatch presenter, Chris Packham, tweeted a link to a study “exploring the potential dangers of glyphosate”, and urged followers to sign the online ‘Stop Glyphosate’ petition. His comments received a mixed reaction on Twitter, with farmers critical of the claims.
Many farmers oppose a potential ban, claiming the risks of glyphosate are too low to be a health hazard, equating risk levels with those found in caffeine or bacon. Farmers say using glyphosate reduces the need to use other herbicides, helps protect soil, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the need for ploughing.
Economically, 54% of British farmers believe a glyphosate ban would cost them more than £10,000 every year.
In March, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued its opinion that there was not the scientific evidence to classify glyphosate either as a “carcinogen, as a mutagen or as toxic for reproduction” – a decision which was welcomed by industry bodies.
Until the EU makes its decision later this year, debate continues.
With uncertainty around this matter and other pressures on the farming sector, it is increasingly important to ensure you and your business are protected. If you would like to discuss your insurance with us, contact our dedicated farm insurance team on 01653 697055 or by emailing farm@mcclarroninsurance.com.
