ACTION NEEDED: EPA Abandons Science, Regulatory Requirements for a Novel RNA-Based Class of Pesticides
In a stunning departure from regulatory norms, EPA has greenlit Ledprona for three years of commercial use—before the standard testing period is even complete. Your voice is needed.
UPDATE (10:52 am): I have written to the EPA to find out why the public comment option is not yet made available again at the Docket website. I will send out a new article when I hear back, hopefully with a resolution.
In an unprecedented move that has raised eyebrows and concerns alike, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has fast-tracked the approval of Ledprona, a novel pesticide based on RNA interference (RNAi) technology. This decision has far-reaching implications for environmental toxicology, ecosystem health, and human well-being. If you're considering a deep dive into the world of environmental toxicology, this is a critical moment to engage. Here's why your voice, backed by scientific understanding, is needed now more than ever.
The Science Behind RNAi Pesticides
RNA interference is a naturally occurring mechanism used by plants and insects to regulate gene expression. Ledprona, developed by GreenLight Biosciences, aims to exploit this mechanism to combat the Colorado Potato Beetle, a notorious agricultural pest. While the technology promises targeted pest control with minimal environmental impact, it's essential to remember that RNAi in agriculture is still largely uncharted territory.
EPA's Stunning Regulatory Bypass
The EPA granted Ledprona an Experimental Use Permit (EUP), allowing GreenLight Biosciences two years to gather data from limited test plots. Astonishingly, the agency has also greenlit Ledprona for three years of commercial use—before the standard testing period is even complete. This deviation from established regulatory norms raises questions about the EPA's commitment to science-based policy.
The Risks Involved
While Ledprona promises a new frontier in pest control, it also presents unknown risks. For instance, the pesticide could trigger unintended immune responses in humans. Environmental risks are also a concern; the technology could potentially harm off-target insect species, disrupting ecosystems in unforeseen ways. Several experts and studies have already questioned the safety and efficacy of this new class of pesticides, emphasizing the need for rigorous testing.
The Extended Public Comment Period
Due to efforts by the US-based environmental organization Friends of the Earth, the EPA has extended the public comment period until October 30. This is your opportunity to weigh in on a matter of national environmental and public health significance. Consider raising questions about the expedited approval process, the potential for unintended ecological consequences, and the lack of comprehensive human health studies.
Why This Matters to Everyone
The fast-tracking of Ledprona serves as a case study in the importance of environmental toxicology in public policy. The field provides the tools to critically evaluate new technologies like RNAi pesticides, assessing their impact on both human health and the environment.
Call to Action
Now is the time to make your voice heard. Participate in the public comment process and demand a science-based, transparent approach to pesticide approval. If you are looking to deepen your understanding of these complex issues, consider enrolling in our intensive 18-lecture course "Environmental Toxicology: Ecosystem and Human Health." This course will equip you with the scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills you'll need to be an informed citizen and effective advocate. (On-Demand Access is now available at a fraction of the cost!)
NOTE: PEOPLE WHO TAKE THE LIVE COURSE AND USE THE COUPON CODE “FRIENDS” will ENJOY A 10% DISCOUNT AND 50% OF THEIR REGISTRATION FEE WILL BE DONATED TO FRIENDS OF THE EARTH AS A THANK-YOU FOR WORKING TO EXTENDING THE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD.
Conclusion
The EPA's decision to fast-track Ledprona is not just about this one class of pesticides: represents a dangerous precedent that will gut public concerns over the public health effects of all future EPA decisions. In this moment, right now, this demands public scrutiny, your voice, and scientific rigor. Your engagement can make a difference. Whether you choose to participate in the public comment process or deepen your expertise through educational advancement, your informed action is crucial.
Additional Resources
EPA Public Comment Page - Extended to October 30th, 2023 after effort by Friends of the Earth … ACCESS HERE» https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0271-0009
The New Lede - EPA fast-tracking of gene-altering pesticide sparks concerns
Children’s Health Defense: Despite ‘Massive Lack’ of Safety Data, EPA Wants to Approve Biopesticide to Kill Potato Beetles
To submit comments to the EPA, you can follow these steps:
Visit https://www.regulations.gov
Search for the appropriate docket ID number or EPA docket number. (EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0271-0009)
Click the "Comment Now" button or follow the online instructions for submitting comments.
Submit your comments.
Please note that once submitted, comments cannot be edited or removed from the EPA's public docket. Unfortunately, I no longer see the "Comment Now" button. So, we have to email them. Please call the EPA and tell them to re-instate public comments for docket EPA-HQ-OPP-2021-0271-0009 (734)-214-4300
Wow. One like. There should be a million.
People need to turn off their idiot Dancing with the Half Naked Stars, Keeping up with the Kartrashians, and the latest Chicago Bears vs. the Roman Coliseum Gladiators panem et circenses and get a clue. Your life might depend on it. In fact, it DOES.