Sweden Challenges EU Decision on Paraquat Use

Strategic Insights -

Sweden's environment minister, Lena Sommested, has denounced the EU's decision to allow the use of paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide, citing the risk of death or injury to thousands of people. The Swedish government has announced plans to take the European Commission to court to reverse the decision, which was made in December and supported by a majority of member states.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EU has allowed the use of paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide, despite restrictions on its application and limited use to professionals.
  • Sweden has banned paraquat since 1983 and has campaigned to have it outlawed across the EU.
  • The Commission's decision was supported by a majority of member states, but opposed by Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Austria, and Luxembourg.
  • The use of paraquat is associated with the risk of harm and death for thousands of people, especially in poor countries where people are unable or do not know how to protect themselves.
  • The Federation of Swedish farmers has stated that its members will not use paraquat, highlighting the sensitive nature of the issue in Sweden.
  • Sweden's environment minister, Lena Sommested, describes paraquat as "highly toxic and extremely hazardous to health" and unwarranted in sustainable agriculture.

Statistics:

  • 1983: The year Sweden banned the use of paraquat.
  • 2014: The year the European Commission made the decision to allow the use of paraquat.
  • 5 countries: Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Austria, and Luxembourg opposed the EU's decision on paraquat use.
  • Thousands: The estimated number of people at risk of death or injury due to paraquat use.

Sources:

  • "Swedish government to challenge EU decision on paraquat" (bbc.com, 24 January 2014).
  • "Sweden's ban on paraquat 'unwise' business" (eubusiness.com, 15 July 2003)
  • "Sweden takes EU to court over paraquat use" (newsverige.se, 17 February 2014)