Yet precaution must be exercised as part of a science based approach to regulation, and not as a substitute for such an approach. The U.S. negotiators have agreed on screening criteria for POPs that take into account the fact that there is often a lack of data regarding environmental persistence, bio-accumulation, the potential for long range transport and the toxicity of these substances. The agreement also begins the process to cancel around 20 different uses of diazinon on food crops. Diazinon is the most widely used pesticide by homeowners on lawns, and is one of the most widely used pesticide ingredients for application around the home and in gardens. It is used to control insects and grub worms.
Organophosphates can affect the nervous system in humans and wildlife.
Diazinon's use on turf poses a risk to birds, and it is one of the most common pesticides found in air, rain, and drinking and surface water. The agreement reached today with the manufacturers, Syngenta and Makhteshim Agan, will eliminate 75 percent of the chemical's use, amounting to more than 11 million pounds of the pesticide each year. EPA asked the expert panel to provide an independent scientific assessment on the potential allergenicity, sensitization and possible exposure to StarLink corn. StarLink is not licensed for use in food consumed by humans, but has been found in some products. Aventis, the manufacturer, has asked for a time-limited exemption to allow StarLink corn in food products, which EPA is reviewing.