The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released the final biological evaluation(BE) report , along with its response to comments received on the draft BE, for sulfoxaflor.

Sulfoxaflor: A Newer Alternative to Older Insecticides

Sulfoxaflor is an insecticide that is commonly used on various crops to target difficult pests, such as aphids and tarnished plant bugs. As a newer alternative to older insecticides, including carbamates, neonicotinoids, organophosphates, and pyrethroids, sulfoxaflor requires fewer applications, resulting in less exposure to non-target pests and plants.

Report Evaluates Potential Effects of Sulfoxaflor on Endangered and Threatened Species and Their Habitats

The final BE report evaluates the potential effects of sulfoxaflor on federally listed endangered and threatened species and their designated critical habitats. The report also considers whether sulfoxaflor is likely to jeopardize endangered and threatened species or adversely modify designated critical habitats. The release of this report supports EPA\’s efforts to meet its obligations under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as outlined in its April 2022 ESA Workplan to provide practical protections from pesticides for listed species.

EPA has considered the comments received during the public comment period in 2022 and incorporated revised proposed labels from the registrant to decrease exposure in the final BE.

Revised Proposed Labels Decrease Exposure in Final BE Report

In the final BE, EPA evaluated more than 1,700 listed species and over 800 designated critical habitats in the United States. The report found that sulfoxaflor will cause no effect to 47 percent of listed species and 54 percent of critical habitats. It may affect but is not likely to adversely affect 22 percent of listed species and 37 percent of critical habitats. Additionally, the report found that sulfoxaflor is likely to adversely affect 4 percent of listed species and adversely modify 3 percent of critical habitats.

EPA Finds Sulfoxaflor Likely to Affect Certain Listed Species and/or Critical Habitats Adversely

As a result of EPA\’s determination that sulfoxaflor is likely to adversely affect certain listed species and/or critical habitats, the agency has initiated formal consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service. During formal consultation, the Services will use EPA\’s effects determinations to inform their biological opinions, which will include their final determinations of whether a pesticide jeopardizes each relevant listed species and/or adversely modifies designated critical habitats.

Overall, the release of the final BE report on sulfoxaflor by EPA underscores the need for the pesticide industry to take a responsible and sustainable approach to product development and use. The industry must work to ensure that its products are safe for the environment and all living beings, and that they comply with all regulations and restrictions to protect endangered species and their habitats.

How Can REACH24H Help?

In light of the recent release of the final biological evaluation report by the EPA, it is more important than ever for companies in the pesticide industry to ensure that they are in compliance with all regulations and restrictions.

At REACH24H, we understand the challenges that companies face in navigating the complex and evolving regulatory landscape for pesticides. Our team of experts can provide comprehensive regulatory support to help companies meet their compliance obligations and ensure that their products are safe for the environment and all living beings.

We offer a range of services to assist companies in complying with EPA regulations, including data analysis, risk assessment, product registration, and labeling compliance. Our team has a deep understanding of the regulatory requirements for pesticides in the United States and can help companies navigate the complex registration process.

To know more about the regulations, please click U.S. EPA Pesticide Registration.

Reprinted from: U.S. EPA

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