First International Conference for Heads of Pesticide Regulatory Authorities
Ottawa, Canada
September 12-14, 2011
General Information
Health Canada's Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) hosted the first International Conference for Heads of Pesticides Regulatory Authorities which took place September 12-14, 2011 in Ottawa, Canada.
This conference provided an opportunity to discuss common concerns and to seek cooperative solutions to current and emerging issues related to pesticide regulation and management around the world.
Conference Objectives
The objectives of the conference were to:
- Increase understanding of the global forces that are shaping and changing the regulatory landscape in the management of pesticides;
- Discuss policy issues and challenges of common interest as well as new and emerging issues in pesticides regulation and management;
- Facilitate the exchange of leading practices in policy, scientific and operational issues;
- Draw on the collective expertise and experience to explore ways to develop strategies and policies in a more coordinated and integrated manner;
- Strengthen harmonized global networks and solidify working partnerships among pesticides regulatory authorities; and
- Discuss appropriate tools (technical, research, policy, education, governance, etc.) for implementation by countries and international organizations.
About the Pest Management Regulatory Agency
The primary mandate of the PMRA is to protect the health and environment of Canadians through the regulation of pesticides. Before a pesticide is approved for use in Canada, a rigorous scientific risk assessment must be done to determine if the risks associated with the use of the product are acceptable. Under the Pest Control Products Act (PCPA) an acceptable risk means that there is reasonable certainty that no harm to human health, future generations or the environment will result from exposure to or use of a product.
As scientific knowledge increases, so does our ability to understand and reduce risks. The PMRA keeps pace with these advances by using the most up-to-date risk assessment tools and methods, and by collaborating with other regulatory agencies and partners around the world. The goal is to ensure that pesticides available for use in Canada meet the highest possible safety standards.
PMRA employs scientists with expertise spanning a wide range of fields, including toxicology, environmental science, biochemistry, agronomy (the science of crop production and soil management) and hydrology (the study of bodies of water).
For more information about the PMRA, please visit the Health Canada website. A fact sheet is also available which further explains our roles and responsibilities.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact the Health Canada Pest Management Information Service.
