Chemical regulator approves restricted use of controversial herbicide paraquat

Australia's chemical regulator has permitted the restricted use of the herbicide paraquat, a decision that concludes a review process initiated in 1997. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) announced its findings, allowing the herbicide to continue its use under "significant" new restrictions.

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the weight of evidence does not show that paraquat exposure through approved uses increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease

Key among these restrictions are substantially lowered application rates, with the maximum rate for paraquat and diquat now set at 231 grams per hectare, a steep reduction from the previous 1,150 grams per hectare. Furthermore, the use of backpack sprayers for application is no longer permitted, and enclosed mixing and loading systems are now mandatory for all ongoing uses. These new conditions will be reflected on the product labels for all paraquat and diquat manufactured from the date of the decision.

The APVMA's review concluded that "the weight of evidence does not show that paraquat exposure through approved uses increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease." This finding comes despite recent statements from Australia's top neurologists who claimed their concerns had been disregarded by the chemical regulator. Paraquat and the related herbicide diquat are fast-acting weedkillers that farming groups argue are essential for managing resistant weeds.

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Overall, the maximum rate of application of paraquat and diquat will be 231 grams per hectare, when it was previously 1,150 grams per hectare.

Farming organizations had expressed concern that paraquat might be banned, as it has been in over 67 countries, due to perceived risks to human health and the environment. The APVMA received 171 submissions from various stakeholders, including scientists, doctors, and the agricultural industry, during its extensive review.

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significant new restrictions