EU experts accused of conflict of interest over herbicide linked to cancer

Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. But, just two days before the decision is due to be announced, Greenpeace sent a letter to the ECHA’s executive director, Geert Dancet, claiming several members of its Risk Assessment Committee “appear to have a conflict of interest, according to ECHA’s own criteria”, The Independent can reveal. He may not be best-placed to safeguard strict independence from industry interests.” open image in gallery Monsanto's controversial Glyphosate pesticide, Roundup The letter also expressed concern that the ECHA committee was using “unpublished scientific evidence provided by the industry in formulating its opinions” in addition to studies published in peer-reviewed journals. “We respectfully ask you to enforce and improve ECHA’s policies to safeguard its independence from industry and transparency of its work.” The ECHA, which had not received the letter when contacted by The Independent, said it published declarations of interest for key staff and committee members on its website. “Glyphosate is keeping Britain farming – it’s as simple as that.” The ECHA committee is due to reveal its recommendation on Wednesday, but may delay this until another meeting on 15 March.