EPA approves biopesticide Blossom Protect

5 June 2015

EPA approves biopesticide Blossom Protect

An Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Decision-making Committee has approved an application to import the biopesticide Blossom Protect, which contains two strains of Aureobasidium pullulans. This is the first application received by the EPA for a pesticide containing these strains.

Blossom Protect is intended to be used for the protection of pipfruit trees against the disease fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) and kiwifruit vines against Psa (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae).

The application, by Zelam Limited, was publicly notified as it contained two strains of Aureobasidium pullulans not previously assessed in New Zealand. No submissions were received.

The Decision-making Committee has approved the application with controls, in accordance with the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996.

View the application and decision documents

The EPA’s role is to decide on applications under the HSNO Act to import and manufacture hazardous substances. We put controls in place to manage the risks of hazardous substances to safeguard people and the environment.

ENDS

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