A comprehensive 2024 report commissioned by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has identified significant regulatory gaps in the use of nanomaterial-based plant protection, biocidal, and fertilising products within the EU. Conducted by Innovamol Srl, the report recommends new regulatory frameworks to manage nano-agrochemicals, emphasising their potential to enhance agricultural productivity while reducing chemical risks and environmental impact.
Nano-Enabled Agriculture: A Promising but Unregulated Frontier
The report highlights an increasing shift towards nano-agrochemicals as effective alternatives to traditional agricultural products. The primary benefit of these nano-formulations, including fertilisers, fungicides, and insecticides, lies in their ability to deliver active ingredients with greater precision, potentially reducing the amount of chemicals used, protecting non-target organisms, and improving crop yield and resilience.
Nano-agrochemicals, defined as agricultural chemicals containing particles smaller than 100 nanometers, have shown improved efficacy and targeted delivery. Examples include zinc oxide nanoparticles that promote plant growth without compromising nutrient distribution and titanium dioxide nanoparticles that enhance photosynthesis under saline conditions.
Current Regulatory Gaps in EU Policy
The ECHA report underscores the need for nano-specific regulatory provisions, noting that the Plant Protection Products Regulation (EC) No. 1107/2009 and the Fertilising Products Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 lack guidelines on nanoforms, despite their inclusion in the Biocidal Products Regulation (EU) 528/2012. The absence of nano-specific regulations leads to inconsistencies in safety evaluations, transparency, and market authorization for nano-agrochemicals.
The report recommends implementing nano-specific definitions and labelling, establishing a regulatory database for tracking nano-agrochemicals, and developing a notification system for manufacturers. An EU-level database curated by the European Union Observatory for Nanomaterials (EUON) could facilitate transparent market access, helping regulators and stakeholders manage these advanced materials effectively.
Recommendations for Safety and Sustainability
Acknowledging both the potential and risks of nano-agrochemicals, the report advises mandatory toxicity testing, enhanced safety assessments, and systematic reviews to address data gaps. Although nano-agrochemicals offer benefits like reduced environmental impact, their long-term health and ecological effects remain uncertain. The report also highlights potential safety concerns related to oxidative stress and genotoxicity in some nanomaterial applications, underscoring the importance of regulating concentrations and application methods.
ECHA's report calls for collaborative efforts between EU authorities, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and EUON, to establish clear usage guidelines and promote sustainable nano-agrochemical practices across Europe.
