Background on the Mexican Figures and Context
The federal government, through the Secretariats of Agriculture and Rural Development, along with the Ministries of Economy and Environment, has issued its first decree to prohibit the use of 35 pesticides deemed harmful to human health and the environment. This action comes after a 34-year gap since the last review of pesticides was conducted.
The last nationwide prohibition of pesticides occurred in 1991, when 21 active ingredients were banned. The current decree is based on scientific evidence and aims to prevent severe adverse effects on human health and the environment. Many of these substances persist in nature, accumulate in human and animal tissues, and enter the food chain, affecting other organisms.
Key Provisions of the Decree
The decree, to be published in the Federal Official Gazette (DOF), mandates that federal public administration revoke and refrain from granting authorizations, permits, or registrations for the production, formulation, manufacturing, storage, importation, transport, commercialization, distribution, use, application, and final disposal of the 35 pesticides across the entire national territory.
In collaboration with the pest control industry, producers, and addressing societal concerns, the decree also encourages access to less risky pesticides for national producers at affordable costs. This will facilitate the adoption of safer alternatives, especially for small and medium-sized producers.
Balancing Agricultural Goals and International Commitments
This decree seeks to strike a balance between promoting healthy and sustainable agriculture and food systems while advancing Mexico’s goal of increasing food autonomy and sovereignty, as outlined in the Plan México. By ratifying its commitment to the Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions, Mexico aims to safeguard human health and the environment from harmful persistent organic pollutants and dangerous chemicals subject to international trade.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this decree? The federal government aims to protect human health and the environment by prohibiting 35 harmful pesticides.
- When was the last time such a decree was issued? The last nationwide prohibition of pesticides occurred in 1991.
- Which organizations collaborated on this decree? The Secretariats of Agriculture and Rural Development, along with the Ministries of Economy and Environment, collaborated on this decree.
- What measures does the decree take to support producers? The decree encourages access to less risky pesticides for national producers at affordable costs, facilitating the adoption of safer alternatives.
- How does this decree align with Mexico’s international commitments? The decree demonstrates Mexico’s adherence to the Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions, which aim to protect human health and the environment from harmful substances.
