The EPA released its proposed guidance on 2 December 2024, aimed at streamlining ESA evaluations for new active ingredients, new uses, and ongoing registration reviews of antimicrobial pesticides. This effort complies with the Pesticide Registration Improvement Act of 2022 (PRIA 5) and supports the 2022 ESA Workplan.
Key Features of the Guidance
Addressing Outdoor and Indoor Uses
While PRIA 5 focuses on outdoor applications, the EPA expands the guidance to include indoor uses with potential environmental exposure. For instance, antimicrobial agents in industrial water treatment that discharge into aquatic systems are also covered.
Proposed Actions for Applicants
To enhance ESA analyses, the guidance recommends:
- Spatial Overlap Analysis: Identifying where pesticide uses intersect with habitats of endangered species.
- Mitigation Proposals: Encouraging applicants to incorporate measures such as reduced application rates or geographic restrictions to minimise harm to critical species.
Expediting Consultations
By predicting risks and suggesting mitigations early, the guidance aims to reduce delays during ESA consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Implications for Stakeholders
Public Comment and Collaboration
The EPA invites feedback from stakeholders, including industry professionals and conservation groups, to refine the guidance. Submitted comments will influence the final document, slated for release by December 2025.
Balancing Act
The guidance aims to balance wildlife conservation with the practical needs of antimicrobial pesticide users, ensuring ESA compliance without unnecessary regulatory burdens.
