New Zealand EPA Seeks Feedback on Synthetic Pyrethroid Hazard Classification and Aquatic Risk Assessment 

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of New Zealand has announced it is seeking feedback on aquatic risk assessments and proposed hazard classifications for eight synthetic pyrethroids (SPs) as part of its ongoing reassessment of hazardous substances. Synthetic pyrethroids, which are widely used in a variety of sectors including agriculture, forestry, public health, and domestic use, are the focus of this critical assessment. 

The eight synthetic pyrethroids under review are: 

1. Alpha-cypermethrin 

2. Cypermethrin 

3. Deltamethrin 

4. Permethrin 

5. Tetramethrin 

6. Bifenthrin 

7. Lambda-cyhalothrin 

EPA emphasizes the importance of reassessing these SPs for which there is evidence of use in New Zealand. This initiative provides an opportunity for stakeholders and interested parties to provide their insights related to hazard classification endpoints and aquatic risk assessment for these substances. 

EPA has already established hazard classification endpoints for human health and environmental safety for these eight SPs. They have also carried out an aquatic risk assessment for six SPs that are widely used in commercial agriculture and horticulture. 

In particular, EPA has identified significant risks to the aquatic environment from spray drift due to the high aquatic toxicity associated with these synthetic pyrethroids. These risks are not considered to be manageable with conventional risk mitigation measures and further information is needed to improve the aquatic risk assessment. 

EPA is specifically seeking feedback on the following aspects: 

1. The endpoint values selected for hazard classification. 

2. Higher order refinements for the aquatic risk assessment. 

3. Identification and detailed description of critical uses within the industry. 

4. Proposals for new or additional risk reduction measures to manage risks associated with critical uses. 

Interested parties and stakeholders are invited to submit their feedback, with a deadline set at 5:00 pm on February 29, 2024. 

This call for feedback represents a crucial step in ensuring the safety and sustainability of synthetic pyrethroid use in New Zealand, as EPA actively engages with the public and industry experts to refine its assessments and mitigate potential risks. Your input could play a significant role in shaping the future regulations for these essential chemicals.