High Court supports EPA decision on glyphosate review
- Finn Anderson
- Nov 2
- 1 min read
The High Court has upheld the Environmental Protection Authority’s (EPA) decision not to reassess glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup. Justice Karen Grau ruled that the EPA acted lawfully when it found there were no grounds to reopen the review of glyphosate or glyphosate-based products.
The Environmental Law Initiative (ELI) had sought a reassessment, arguing that the EPA used the wrong legal test and failed to fully consider new evidence about potential health and environmental risks. The court dismissed these claims, finding that the EPA had applied the correct process and properly weighed international scientific reviews before reaching its decision.
ELI expressed disappointment at the outcome, citing concerns about New Zealand’s limited scrutiny of glyphosate compared to other countries. While not calling for a full ban, ELI said a reassessment is needed to ensure stronger protections for people and the environment.
In response, the EPA welcomed the ruling, noting that regulators in the European Union, Australia, and the United States have also recently reviewed glyphosate and found no need to reclassify it as a carcinogen. The agency said it will continue to monitor international research and developments relevant to New Zealand.
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