Les phytosanitaires - homologation

Plant protection products - homologation

Professeur Émérite, École Nationale Vétérinaire de Toulouse

Abstract

The aims of the registration of pesticides in Europe are to define their security of use for consumers, workers and environment. To achieve this goal, we have in France the necessary structures described in the first part of the paper (Comité d'homogation, Commission des Toxiques en Agriculture, structures scientifiques mixtes, etc.). Risk is function of hazard and exposure. In terms of hazard, the valid concept is to get no effect level in different targets. However, new concepts will he introduced in the future concerning carcinogenicity, hormonotoxicity and immunotoxicity. Another important problem is the toxicity of the mixtures. In terms of exposure, it is necessary to get information on the real exposure for consumers, workers and water. With the development of analytical technologies, it is a difficult exercise but nOW possible. However, the regulatory process must be more than anything else a scientific exrcise. The presence of traces of pesticides in the environment is not necessarily a danger. Only scientific data can permit a good estimation of the risks.