In the absence of agreement between the 27 countries of the Union, the European Commission extended the authorization for the use of glyphosate for ten years. A real snub for environmentalists who have mobilized in recent months to try to ban this herbicide criticized for its effects on human health and the natural environment. Supported by scientific studies, opponents had tried to block the way for this component of Roundup developed by Monsanto but bought by Bayer.
“The worst-case scenario has just been adopted”
Known for having been one of the first mayors in France to issue an order banning pesticides, the former mayor of Langouët (Ille-et-Vilaine) Daniel Cueff reacted vigorously to the extension of authorization granted by Europe. “How is it that Europe can re-authorize the marketing of such a poison? All independent scientific studies from the chemical industries throughout the world attest to the danger of glyphosate both for human health and for biodiversity. And yet, the worst-case scenario has just been adopted.”
Having become a regional advisor, Daniel Cueff notably accuses the European Commission of being “under the influence of pesticide lobbies”. The latter warns that the consequences of this renewal “risk being even more dramatic in terms of public health” than asbestos.
In France, the free sale of glyphosate has been prohibited to individuals since January 1, 2019.