Via Pontica Foundation has joined an open letter addressed to the European Council, calling for the immediate cessation of the production and export of banned and hazardous pesticides from the European Union. The letter, signed by dozens of organizations from around the world, emphasizes the right of all people to live in a healthy environment and to have a healthy future.
The text of the letter highlights that despite the EU’s regulatory framework, which provides some level of protection for citizens’ health and the environment, these protections are often lacking in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). Farmers and workers in these countries cannot afford necessary protective equipment, leading to dramatic cases of poisoning and even suicides.
It is particularly concerning that despite the ban on Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs) in the EU, they continue to be produced and exported to third countries. This double-standard behavior creates unfair competition for European farmers and causes significant harm to health and the environment in importing countries.
Via Pontica Foundation and the other signatory organizations are calling on the EU to fulfill its promises made in the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) and the European Green Deal by implementing a ban on the export of banned pesticides. The letter urges the inclusion of this topic in the EU’s strategic program for the next legislative cycle, which will be discussed at the informal meeting of EU leaders on June 17, 2024.
The support of the letter by Via Pontica Foundation and numerous international organizations underscores the global commitment to protecting human health and the environment. The Foundation is committed to continuing its mission to restore resilient ecosystems and improve the relationship between people and nature by supporting initiatives aimed at reducing the use of hazardous chemicals and promoting safe alternatives.
Signing this letter is another step towards global change and sends a strong message to governments and companies worldwide that the use of hazardous pesticides and chemicals must be stopped everywhere. Via Pontica Foundation will continue to work actively to achieve this goal and to protect future generations.
You can read the letter here.