EU executive extends approval for glyphosate weed killer

BRUSSELS – The European Union’s executive Commission has given the go-ahead for the popular weed killer glyphosate to be used for up to 18 months longer amid concerns about its possible links to cancer.

The Commission acted Wednesday after the 28-nation bloc’s member countries failed to agree on extending the authorization for glyphosate, which was due to expire at the end of June.

Many argue there are too many uncertainties about the health effects of the weedkiller. Glyphosate is an ingredient in Roundup, a popular weedkiller across the globe.

The Commission extended the approval of glyphosate through the end of 2017 at the latest. It said that, by then, the European Chemicals Agency will have produced an additional opinion on the weedkiller.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.

Leave a Reply

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.