Israel takes steps to limit pesticide exposure

The inter-ministerial committee in Israel has opted to reduce the number of pesticides permitted for usage in the country's horticultural sector. The Health Ministry made this announcement last week. It comes on the heels of a rise in complaints from the public concerning exposure to chemicals.

The committee decided that use of insecticides containing three types of organophosophate substances will be halted in two months, and use of other substances will be banned within two years.

The decision comes not just as result of public concerns, but also following the findings of research, which appears to show possible neurological effects due to exposure to certain pesticide ingredients. Researchers have stated that those working in the agricultural sector could be at risk, as could pregnant women in the vicinity of treated crops.

The Agriculture Ministry announced that it is working to obtain approval of new guidelines that would ban the use of insecticides within 100 meters of homes, and require the ground to be covered with plastic sheeting at distances of 100-350 meters from residential areas.

The Environmental Protection Ministry noted that a study it commissioned from the Technion to simulate the spread of insecticides is soon to be completed. Based on the results, decisions will be made regarding steps to protect the population.