Cosmetic Use of Pesticides in B.C.
Engagement Summary
The Province began public consultation on the cosmetic use of pesticides in 2009. In October 2011, a Special Committee of the Legislature was created to consider the issue. The Special Committee solicited input from experts, non-governmental organizations and members of the public. The Special Committee produced a report outlining their assessment of the risks of the cosmetic use of pesticides and provided recommendations to government.
Taking these recommendations into consideration, the Ministry outlined a proposed approach in a 2013 Intentions Paper. In 2014, the Ministry posted online a summary of comments received in response to the Intentions Paper and conducted further consultation on specific issues. This document considers input received to date. Details about the consultation process can be found on the Ministry’s Regulations & Consultations website.
Timeframe:
- From December 2009 to February 15, 2010 a consultation paper and response form were made available for comment;
- In March 2010, a summary of what was heard was released;
- October 9 to December 8, 2013 an additional consultation was held on proposed regulatory changes;
- In June, 2015, a Policy Update was posted to describe the final proposed revisions; and
- On July 1, 2016 the regulation amendments came in to effect.
Input Received:
2009/2010 Consultation:
- More than 8,000 comments, signatures on petitions or submissions were received:
- 4,000 individual signatures on petitions;
- 3,000 individual items of correspondence sent to MLAs or the Ministry of Environment;
- Over 500 Template letters; and
- Over 800 emails or faxes.
2013 Consultation:
- 244 responses;
- One letter signed by 511 people; and
- 17 Stakeholder responses.
Input leads to action:
As a result of the consultation, the Province amended the Integrated Post Management Regulation under the Integrated Pest Management Act. The objectives of the amendments are to ensure that:
- Pesticides will be used by people with knowledge and training;
- Pesticides will be used as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) process; and
- Public interaction with pesticide vendors at the point of sale will increase.
The amended regulation came into effect on July 1, 2016.
The Ministry has developed a series of fact sheets and guidance documents that describe the changes and are available for viewing on the ‘Changes to Pesticide Regulations & Consultations’ site.
If you wish to be notified when new information is available, please join our e-link.
If you have any questions regarding the amendments or other requirements under the IPM Act and Regulation, please send an email to IPMProgram@gov.bc.ca.