Regulation on the market of products containing, consisting of or produced from genetically modified maize DP202216, pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council
This resolution expresses the European Parliament's objection to the European Commission's decision to authorise genetically modified maize DP202216 for use in food and feed. The Parliament believes the decision exceeds the Commission's powers and is inconsistent with EU law. The decision affects consumers, farmers, and the environment by potentially increasing the use of herbicides. The genetically modified maize is resistant to glufosinate, a substance classified as toxic to reproduction, and its approval for use in the EU has expired. The Parliament highlights concerns about the increased use of herbicides associated with herbicide-tolerant crops, which can lead to herbicide-resistant weeds and a 'vicious circle' of increased herbicide application. This reliance on herbicides can negatively impact soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. The resolution calls on the Commission to repeal the authorisation decision and to ensure that hazardous chemicals banned in the EU are not produced for export. It also urges the Commission to consider the EU's international commitments regarding biodiversity and sustainable development when making authorisation decisions.
Analysis
The European Parliament considers that the Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2618 exceeds the implementing powers provided for in Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003.
What changes
- The European Parliament calls on the Commission to repeal Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2618 and submit a new draft to the committee.
- The Parliament calls on the Commission not to authorise herbicide-tolerant GM crops due to increased risks to biodiversity, food safety, and workers’ health.
Expected impact
- The Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2618 is considered not consistent with Union law, specifically the aim of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 to ensure a high level of protection for human health, animal health, and the environment.
- Herbicide-tolerant GM crops may lock farmers into a system dependent on herbicides, accelerating the emergence of resistant weeds and creating a 'herbicide treadmill'.
- Excessive reliance on herbicides associated with herbicide-tolerant GM crops can worsen soil health, water quality, and biodiversity.
Limitations
- The document is a resolution from the European Parliament and does not contain the full text of the Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2618 itself.
- Specific details regarding the monitoring plan for GM maize DP202216 were commented on by Member States but are not fully detailed within this resolution.
- The precise impacts on human and animal health from potential increased herbicide residues are mentioned as a concern but not quantified in this text.
Shadow Rapporteurs
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