Health Canada: Plan to Phase out Most Uses of Clothianidin and Thiamethoxam

Author: Bhavesh Patel

Neonicotinoids are a class of pesticides used to control insects on a variety of agricultural crops, including seed treatments, and on turf and ornamental plants. Although primarily used in agriculture, neonicotinoids can also be used for other applications such as controlling cockroaches and ants. Clothianidin and thiamethoxam have been measured at levels that are harmful to aquatic insects, a key source of food for fish, birds and other animals.

Following special reviews for two neonicotinoid pesticides, clothianidin and thiamethoxam, Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency has found that these substances are being measured at levels that are harmful to aquatic insects. Based on these findings, Health Canada is proposing to phase out all outdoor agricultural and turf uses for clothianidin, and all outdoor agricultural and ornamental uses for thiamethoxam, in the next three to five years.

Health Canada has published proposed special review decisions for both pesticides. These proposals will be subject to a 90-day consultation period, during which stakeholders and interested parties can submit comments on the proposed decision and provide additional data for consideration. Final special review decisions are expected to be announced at the end of 2019 and will take into consideration any comments or new information received during the consultation period.

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Reference: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2018/08/health-canada-to-consult-on-plan-to-phase-out-most-uses-of-the-neonicotinoids-clothianidin-and-thiamethoxam.html