The EU Council has proposed adding twelve hazardous substances to the list of unacceptable co-formulants in plant protection products, effectively banning their use in pesticides across the Union. The measure targets chemicals classified as carcinogens, persistent and bioaccumulative substances, and a persistent organic pollutant, aiming to strengthen public health and environmental protection under Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009.
Document Details and Legal Basis The proposal, issued as a Council cover note on 2 May 2026, seeks to amend Annex III of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, which governs the placing of plant protection products on the EU market. The twelve co-formulants include substances such as certain phthalates, alkylphenols, and a perfluorinated compound, all identified as having unacceptable risks to human health or the environment. The amendment would make their inclusion in pesticide formulations illegal, with no transition period specified.
Policy Orientations and Trade-offs The Council's initiative reflects a precautionary approach to chemical safety, prioritising health and environmental protection over agricultural flexibility. By banning these co-formulants, the EU aims to reduce exposure to carcinogens and persistent pollutants in food production and ecosystems. However, the move may limit the availability of certain pesticide formulations, potentially increasing costs for farmers and agrochemical companies that must reformulate products. The ban aligns with the EU's Farm to Fork Strategy and the European Green Deal's zero-pollution ambition, but critics argue it could reduce crop protection options without immediate alternatives.
Impact on Stakeholders - EU producers of plant protection products: They face compliance costs to reformulate products, potentially affecting competitiveness and innovation timelines. Small and medium-sized enterprises may be disproportionately burdened. - EU farmers: Reduced access to certain pesticide formulations could increase production costs or pest management challenges, particularly for specialised crops where alternatives are limited. - EU consumers and civil society: Expected to benefit from reduced exposure to hazardous chemicals in food and the environment, improving long-term public health outcomes. - EU regulatory bodies (ECHA, EFSA): Will need to assess substitute substances and manage increased workload for evaluating new co-formulants.
Expected Institutional Follow-up The proposal now moves to the European Parliament and the Council for adoption under the ordinary legislative procedure. The European Commission is expected to conduct an impact assessment, while industry stakeholders may lobby for longer transition periods or exemptions. The final regulation will apply directly in all member states once adopted.
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