Chemical name: 4,4'-Bipyridinium, 1,1'-dimethyl-, dichloride

Final regulatory action has been taken for the category: Pesticide

Final regulatory action: The chemical is Banned

Use or uses prohibited by the final regulatory action:

All formulations containing Paraquat and all uses of these formulations are banned.

Pesticide use or uses that remain allowed:

None

The final regulatory action was based on a risk or hazard evaluation: Yes

Summary of the final regulatory action:

Paraquat has been banned by Decision N125/COOR/2011 of the Coordinating Minister of CILSS on the 5 August 2011.

The reasons for the final regulatory action were relevant to: Human health and environment

Summary of known hazards and risks to human health:

Paraquat has a high acute toxicity and the risk of intoxication for users in the sahelian conditions of use are considered inacceptable.

Expected effect of the final regulatory action in relation to human health:

The adverse effects of paraquat are limited to the Sahel.

Summary of known hazards and risks to the environment:

Paraquat is highly toxic to birds (DL50 = 35 mg/kg).

Expected effect of the final regulatory action in relation to the environment:

The environmental risk of Paraquat is limited.

Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 05/08/2011

All distribution or use of Paraquat are banned as from 5 August 2011 in all 9 CILSS Member States