Destruction of old stockpiles of pesticides

18.7.2006

ORAL QUESTION H-0693/06
for Question Time at the part-session in September I 2006
pursuant to Rule 109 of the Rules of Procedure
by Leopold Rutowicz
to the Commission

Pesticides are among the most toxic chemicals with which human beings come into contact. These toxic substances act on not just harmful organisms but also useful organisms.

 

Because of improved analytical capabilities, it can be seen that human beings and all living organisms in general are exposed to the effects of pesticides in various concentrations. The decomposition of pesticides occurs mainly as a result of biochemical action (bacterial activity), but can also be caused by photochemical reactions (exposure to sunlight) and chemical reactions. Furthermore, the products of decomposition can be more toxic than the original compounds. There is a particularly pressing need swiftly to destroy old, obsolete pesticides, which are a threat to human beings and animals and might contaminate groundwater, in the new Member States.

 

What steps is the Commission taking with a view to speeding up the destruction of old stockpiles of these extremely toxic substances?

 

 

Tabled: 18.07.2006

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