Catch up on the latest hazardous substances news from the Environmental Protection Authority
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Hazardous Substances
Update
August 2021
Hazardous Substances Update #212
Kia ora,
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) offices have been closed during COVID-19 alert level 4. We are continuing to work remotely, in line with Government directions.
August has been a busy month for chemical regulation – with a decision in the methyl bromide reassessment, and new documents released on the EDN application. Catch up on the details in our e-newsletter below.
EPA bans ship hold fumigation as part of methyl bromide rules reset
A total ban on methyl bromide fumigation aboard ships is part of a comprehensive suite of new rules imposed by a Decision-making Committee of the EPA.
“The decision sets a roadmap to full recapture of methyl bromide. It provides a clear and structured pathway for industry to reduce the amount of methyl bromide emitted. The decision recognises the benefits associated with methyl bromide use, while also protecting human health and the environment,” says Dr Chris Hill, General Manager of the EPA’s Hazardous Substances and New Organisms group.
EDN update
The EPA has released an updated staff report and science memorandum for an application to introduce EDN (ethanedinitrile), a potential alternative for the pre-shipment fumigation of export logs.
Other supporting documents have also been released, including the draft Safe Work Instrument(s) developed by WorkSafe, that have been agreed in principle. Safe Work Instruments allow WorkSafe to set additional or modified controls for workplace safety.
Glyphosate call for information extendedThe EPA wants to hear from more professional users and those involved in the supply of glyphosate. The new deadline to respond is 5.00 pm on Friday 24 September. |
First step to reassessing chlorothalonilA Decision-making Committee of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has found that grounds exist to reassess the fungicide chlorothalonil, and substances containing it. |
HSNO Act amendments
Parliament’s Environment Committee is now taking submissions on the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (Hazardous Substances Assessments) Amendment Bill.
It aims to improve the processes for assessing and reassessing hazardous substances, and allow for better use of information from international regulators.
Submissions are due by 3 October.
Recent EPA decisions
APP204078 by Adama New Zealand Limited to import or manufacture MCW-5023 for release. Decision: approved with controls 15 July 2021
APP204246 by UPL New Zealand Limited to import or manufacture Yukon in containment. Decision: approved with controls 15 July 2021
APP204189 by Adria New Zealand Limited to import or manufacture Ormax for release. Decision: approved with controls 22 July 2021
APP204250 by UPL New Zealand Limited to import or manufacture UPL Experimental Plant Protection Compounds in containment. Decision: approved with controls 27 July 2021
APP204251 by UPL New Zealand Limited to import or manufacture FLIP in containment. Decision: approved with controls 28 July 2021
APP204087 by Industrias Qumicas Del Valles. S.A to import or manufacture Vitra 40 WG for release. Decision: approved with controls 30 July 2021
APP204263 by UPL New Zealand Limited to import or manufacture CTPR 400 in containment. Decision: approved with controls 13 August 2021
APP204241 by Syngenta Crop Protection Limited to import or manufacture Syngenta Crop Protection Experimental Plant Protection Compounds in containment. Decision: approved with controls 18 August 2021
APP204181 by Cawthron Institute Limited to import or manufacture export algal extracts (various) in containment. Decision: approved with controls 23 August 2021
Withdrawn applications
No hazardous substance applications, previously notified, were withdrawn in this period.
Amendments to approvals
APP202961 by Environmental Protection Authority to minor or technically amend HSR000690. (Amendment APP204256). Decision: Decision notified on 13 July 2021
APP202961 by Henry Manufacturing Limited to minor or technically amend HSR000690. (Amendment: APP204228). Decision: Decision notified 13 July 2021
Working at the EPA
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