Crop protection and local residents

Does the use of chemical plant protection products on agricultural land expose local residents to a risk of health impairment? This question has been examined by a committee of the Health Council of the Netherlands. Its findings are set out in this advisory report. Little research has been carried out in this area. There is some evidence, mainly from studies carried out abroad, that the use of such products can pose a health risk to local residents. Accordingly, the Committee feels that there is sufficient reason to initiate an exposure study among this section of the population here in the Netherlands, and to adapt the approval procedure for plant protection products. It also identifies measures that can reduce local residents’ exposure.