Industry and campaigners draw battle lines over EDC policy review

Health and environment campaigners are largely at odds with the farming and chemicals industry over how the EU should review legislation on endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), responses to an initial consultation show.

The regulation of EDCs, which can damage health by mimicking the effects of hormones, is a contentious issue. The European Commission has denied accusations of dragging its feet and being overly sympathetic to demands from industry lobbyists. The executive has been chided by governments and MEPs for the late delivery of legal definitions in the context of pesticides and biocides and a broader EU strategy on chemicals in the environment.