About the Approval Process

Strict regulations govern the sale and use of pesticides in Ireland and the EU.  All pesticides must undergo a rigorous approval and authorisation process which results in either an approval or non-approval of the pesticide.  If an approval is granted, there are usually strict terms under which it is approved.  For example, the approval:

• Restricts the crops to which the pesticide can be applied.
• Specifies the rate at which the pesticide can be applied.
• Specifies the number of applications that can be made to a particular crop.
• Applies extra restrictions on use where appropriate.

Applicants looking for an approval of a pesticide have to demonstrate, with scientific data, to the satisfaction of independent experts, that the product poses no unacceptable risks to human health, wildlife or the environment.  This includes pesticides that are used on organic food.

How does the approval process work for plant protection products (PPPs)?

How does the approval process work for Biocides?