New Zealand’s EPA Recognizes International Regulators for Hazardous Substances Control

New Zealand's Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has taken a significant step in enhancing the regulation of hazardous substances by issuing the Hazardous Substances (International Regulators) Notice 2023. This notice, published in the New Zealand Gazette, is in accordance with section 76E of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO Act).

The primary objective of this notice is to officially recognize and designate certain overseas entities as international regulators for the purposes of sections 28A and 63D of the HSNO Act. This move is poised to strengthen New Zealand's commitment to ensuring the safety and control of hazardous substances within its borders.

The objective of the Hazardous Substances (International Regulators) Notice 2023 is to introduce a new notice under section 76E of the HSNO Act. The notice encompasses several countries whose regulatory bodies have been thoroughly evaluated by the EPA in accordance with the criteria outlined in section 76E(3) of the Act and will come into force on October 1, 2023. The following overseas bodies have been officially recognized as international regulators under section 76E(1) of the Act, effective from the date of the notice:

Australia

Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority

Australian Industrial Chemicals Introduction Scheme

Canada

Pest Management Regulatory Agency

European Union

European Food Safety Authority

European Chemicals Agency

European Commission

United Kingdom

Chemicals Regulation Division of the Health and Safety Executive

United States

United States Environmental Protection Agency

The recognition of these international regulators highlights New Zealand's commitment to aligning its hazardous substances management practices with established and respected international standards. This measure is expected to enhance cooperation and information sharing among these regulatory bodies, contributing to safer and more effectively managed hazardous substances in New Zealand.

The EPA has expressed its dedication to regularly reviewing and updating the list of recognized international regulators to ensure the highest level of safety and compliance within the country. Stakeholders and interested parties are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the changes introduced by this notice in preparation for its implementation on October 1, 2023.