Sponsor:
Europäische Kommission, DG Environment
Realisation:
Hydrotox GmbH, Stefan Gartiser (project management)
Ökopol GmbH, Hamburg, Antonia Reihlen
Risk & Policy Analysts Ltd., Loddon, UK, Jan Vernon
Project duration:
September 2006 - September 2007
Summary:
Seven years after the entry into force of the Biocidal Products Directive (98/8/EC) (BPD) in 2000, the Commission is required to draw up a report addressing the implementation of the Directive, the functioning of simplified procedures (frame-formulations, low-risk biocidal products, commodity substances) and possible amendments and improvements. The objective of the study was to assess impacts of the BPD as perceived by the main stakeholders. Impacts include market effects, including benefits, following the removal of active substances from the review programme and the potential consequences of this for pest control and the level of protection. Additionally, the functioning of simplified procedures and potential amendments proposed by stakeholders have been considered. The main information source was a stakeholder consultation, based on tailored questionnaires Around 280 stakeholders from Competent Authorities (CAs), industry, users, and NGOs responded to the questionnaires and/or participated in the case studies. Additional information was obtained from EU statistics, national product registers, literature, internet sources, and CIRCA document analysis.
An in-depth analysis of selected topics was carried out through four case studies covering the reasons for and the impacts of the withdrawal of active substances, the difficulties in harmonising the work of CAs and opinions on simplified procedures. Potential amendments or recommendations for implementation were identified, covering reduced data requirements, frame formulations, variations in product authorisation and mutual recognition. The study identified the need, and potential options, for amendments to address the unwanted effects of the BPD. Measures to reduce the number of substances being withdrawn, by reducing data requirements and facilitating product authorisation, would appear to be key. Furthermore, increased harmonisation of procedures and of interpretation of the requirements would appear to be urgently needed, to prevent unfair competition and failure to achieve the objective of a harmonised market.
Further information:
The final report of the study has been published on the Commission’s website and can be downloaded here.
Contact person:
Dipl. Geogr./Hydrologie Stefan Gartiser (
gartiser(at)hydrotox.de, Tel: #49-(0)761-45512-24)